napa valley winery tours free

California Winery Advisor

Your Independent Guide to the Wine Country

Wineries Offering Free Wine Tasting | Napa Valley

CWA Staff [June 2017]

Where is there free wine tasting Napa style? We hear that question asked over and over again. Some of us remember a time when you could bounce from winery to winery in Napa and never once reach for your wallet. Well, the wineries wised up to our game. The days of Napa Valley as an all you can drink wine fest are over right? That's what many people think, but the glory days of free Napa wine tasting live on at a select number of local Napa wineries.

We dug through our database of Napa wineries and pulled out four, that's right, four free Napa wine tasting options. So maybe you aren't going to fill a day with free wine tasting in Napa, but at least you can work a few of these into your tasting plan. That will save you enough money to afford a bottle or two to bring home or maybe buy you an entree at a discounted Napa restaurant.

So who are these outliers? Who is crazy enough to open up their tasting room to the public and not charge a penny for their fermented grape juice? Who is still offering free wine tasting Napa style?

Wineries that offer free wine tasting Napa

Buehler vineyards| 820 greenfield rd. | st. helena.

So you are going to want to print out directions to Buehler Vineyards. This winery is the very definition of "off the beaten path". Your efforts will be rewarded with a complimentary tour and tasting. This free Napa wine tasting experience will help you connect with the beauty of Napa Valley. The rustic feel of the vineyards and barn will transport you far from the glitz and glamor of current day Napa. The hand drawn map on the Buehler Vineyards website is your first indication that you aren't visiting a winery that is listed on any stock exchange. Buehler offers a nice lineup of Cabs, a Zin, Chard and Sav Blanc. The grapes are grown by the fourth generation of the Buehler family. They, like their ancestors, call the 300-acre site home.

They sell very reasonably priced wines for Napa. A trip to Beuhler vineyards is definitely worth the journey!

Sutter Home Winery

Sutter Home takes a beating in some wine circles. We prefer to think of this winery as being on the vanguard of the fine wine movement in their early days. Sutter Home introduced a generation of wine drinkers to varietal wines with their amazingly successful White Zinfandel.

Wine snobs may turn up their noses at it, but this wine was a gateway to finer wines. We applaud them for the creativity it took to uncover this marketing gem. The winery today is part of the larger Trinchero portfolio. This wine behemoth has a range of winery brands that range from entry level to top shelf.

Do yourself a favor and in enjoy the free wine tasting at this important Napa winery. You will be happy you did!

Vincent Arroyo Winery

As long as you are traveling with a group of 4 or less, this Napa wine tasting is free. Hurray! The winery requires that you book ahead. This small family winery is located outside of the town of Calistoga. This winery isn't a showpiece. This is a real working winery. That is good news for anyone who truly loves wine and winemaking. The winery staff will show you around if they have time. You may want to check when you are making your reservations. Vincent Arroyo winery makes great Cab, Chard, Petit Sirah, Sangio, and Merlot. They also make some red blends. The winery is small production for Napa Valley. That's what makes this free Napa wine tasting spot so great. You can meet and taste with the key people from the winery. There is no better way to learn about a wine than by tasting with the people involved!

Beyond Free Napa Wine Tasting

These free Napa wine tasting experiences will give you a starting point for a budget tasting plan. That doesn't mean you are giving up quality. Each of these wineries has something to offer. They are well worth the visit.

To fill out your tasting experience, we suggest you purchase a tasting pass. These are pre-arranged deals with wineries that are consolidated by one company. We recommend our partner The Priority Wine Pass , but you can find others. With some free tastings and the pass you can experience some of the best wineries the Napa Valley has to offer at less than half the normal cost.

Additional Napa Planning Resources

If you decide free wine tasting Napa style isn't your thing, we offer a number of other Napa Valley wine tasting itineraries for you to try. Here are a few of our most popular wine tasting tour ideas and top 10s.

The Best Napa Valley Wineries To Visit

Napa Valley Wineries For Insiders

Budget Napa Wine Tasting Plan

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The Best Free Or Budget-Friendly Wine Tastings In Napa

Blessed with over 45,000 acres of stunning manicured wine country, Napa Valley stands as one of the most coveted wine destinations in the world. It is located in the gorgeous northern region of California, 60 miles north of San Francisco. Sommeliers and vintners from around the world escape to this celebrated wine region for its 475 wineries. These boast an abundance of cabernet, merlot, chardonnay, and Pinot Noir fermented from grapes grown and harvested on the landscape's lush grounds. Climate conditions, as much as the land's terroir, affect the complex growth patterns of this region's harvest. The warm days drench the soil in sunlight during daylight hours before giving way to cooler evenings and blankets of fog that roll in from the Pacific.

A wine region as prestigious as Napa Valley can cost a pretty penny to tour its luxurious wineries and estates, catering primarily to those of affluent backgrounds. Tours can cost upwards of $200 for a luxury tour and tasting. However, a handful of wineries are committed to making Napa Valley's flourishing wine scene accessible to those with a variety of budgets. Rather than emptying your bank account on a day trip to Napa, check out these budget-friendly wine experiences that range from free to $20 to 40 for a quality wine experience.

Smith Devereaux Wines

This boutique, family-owned winery is less concerned with making a profit and is far more invested in its guests indulging in a quality wine-tasting experience. Independently operated in the Andez Valley, Smith Devereaux Wines produced its first vintage in 2012, and it hasn't stopped creating world-class wines since. It's a one-of-a-kind wine estate whose hospitable team and extraordinary wines make it one vineyard in Napa Valley that's irresistible. Community is everything at this winery, and each guest receives a personalized experience, with tasting tours held one-on-one with the founders and owners of the vineyard.

Smith Devereaux Wines prioritizes sustainable sourcing, taking the initiative to package everything by hand. They use minimal packaging, the lightest glass bottles possible, and no animal products to reduce potential environmental harm. The best part about visiting this family-oriented winery? The experience is free; tasting fees are waived if you join its wine club (which is also free of charge). It only requests that parties of six or more make a reservation before arriving on the grounds.

Napa Cellars Wine

As its name implies, this picturesque vineyard has stood as "A true Napa Valley classic since 1976." Nestled among emerald groves of pine trees and the scenic vineyards covering the mountains, Napa Cellars Wine is located in the historic valley of Oakville. The founders of Napa Cellars Wine are the owners of three vineyards within the Napa Valley region, with properties in Vista Montone, Main Street, and Salvador. 

Napa Cellars Wine offers several guided wine tastings, ranging from $30 to $50, where guests can sample some of its finest hand-picked wines while receiving an insider's tour of the famous Oakville tasting room and the luxurious grounds. With acres of rolling green hills alongside manicured pastures parallel the vineyards, guests are invited to spread out a picnic blanket and snack among the grape vines. Do note that the gates to this stunning vineyard are open Thursday through Monday upon reservation.

Bennett Lane Winery

Numerous visits to Italy inspired the founders' dream of launching their own vineyard. This experience is evident here, as "luxurious" is the best way to describe this extraordinary wine estate. Known as the "friendliest tasting room in the Napa Valley," the tours and tastings at  Bennet Lane Winery  start at just over $30 per person. The grandeur of the property's main building sets the stage for an iconic wine experience, complemented by picnic tables dotting the lawn, plush lounge chair seating, and chiseled dipping pools throughout the property. 

Bennett Lane Winery entered the viticulture scene with its signature red wine, Maximus. Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are the house specialties at this winery. Its hand-bottled wines are crafted with minimal intervention to preserve the freshness of the liquid gold in its natural state. The vineyard also holds frequent on-site events, ranging from Cheese and Wine Pairings and Riedel Wine Glass Seminars to sustainability pop-ups. 

Housley Napa Valley

Wine tasting doesn't get more wholesome than at Housley Napa Valley . It is owned and operated by the Housleys, a vibrant and upbeat couple whose wine-country lifestyle exploded on their popular YouTube series, "The Housley Life." This family-owned winery isn't just a wine-tasting experience — it's a multicultural community of wine lovers worldwide. Located in the heart of Napa Valley, this winery offers a unique tasting room experience, with two separate venues in which it hosts guests.

"The Living Room" wasn't just built to pour wine; it was intentionally designed to cultivate community. Similarly, "The Deck" is an outdoor social hub where guests can unite over a glass of one of Housley's fine wines. Sampling a flight of wine costs only $25, while chocolate pairings begin at $12. Reservations are never necessary, so guests can show up whenever they please. Its in-house marketplace delivers artisan cheeses, olives, and charcuterie to complement its wine offerings. Housley's is a vineyard of many wines. From rosé and chardonnay to Pinot Grigio and Cabernet Sauvignon, its award-winning wines are some of the best in Napa Valley.

Jessup Cellars Napa

Born from a passion for art and wine, Jessup Cellars Napa is known for its premium fine wines and hospitable personality. The friendly team at this wine estate has made a name for itself as a neighborly host within its community, offering a rich knowledge of viticulture. Located in the picturesque village of Yountville, just a few blocks from the famous eatery, The French Laundry, tastings at this distinguished winery start at $30. 

Its boutique tasting room experience isn't contained to its vineyard. Family and community are the pillars of Jessup Cellars, and the team thrives off of delivering in-home wine experiences to tables around the country. Combining its fondness for quality wine with a devotion to cultural arts, tastings are often complemented by rotating galleries hosted by some of the region's most talented artists. As a green winery, its viticulture practices are rooted in sustainability. Jessup Cellars utilizes a soil-to-bottle method, helping to reduce waste and energy usage as well as harmful greenhouse gases that negatively impact the environment.

CA Vineyards

7 of the Best Wineries in Napa Valley with Free Tastings

Napa Valley, California, truly is God’s country. The climate is incredible, and it’s the absolute perfect weather for growing grapes. Where there are grapes, there’s wine. This is one of the most popular reasons to visit Napa Valley . It’s also a good thing to try before you buy, and if you’re looking for some of the best tastings available at some of Napa Valley’s wineries, here are seven to stop by for a drink. Better yet, the tastings are free! So you’ll only break the bank if you purchase a bottle – or bottles! Read on for some of the best bargains at award-winning wineries in Napa Valley.

1. Sutter Home Winery

Although this winery is synonymous with grocery store brands today, it has long been on the cutting edge of introducing wines to the United States.

2. Heitz Wine Cellars

This winery is a wonderful place to learn about history. It’s been open since the 1960s and has kept up with the times, but if you’d like to know the story of Napa Valley while enjoying a free wine tasting like in the Napa of yesteryear, this is the place.

3. Homage Vineyard

This popular micro-winery is a must-do for Cab Sauv enthusiasts. It’s one of the most personal wine-tasting experiences, as you enjoy your tasting in the home of the winery owners.

4. Buehler Vineyards

This is one of the most out-of-the-way wineries in Napa Valley, but getting there is its reward. The Buehlers built this vineyard back in the 70s, and this sprawling winery covers over 300 acres. Despite the time it takes to get out here, the delicious wines available at the end of your journey mean that you won’t be disappointed.

5. August Briggs Winery

The tastings available here at August Briggs are $10 but waived with any purchase, making the tastings technically free. Many wineries offer a waiver if you purchase something but the prices are usually far higher, which makes this winery a good choice if you’re looking for free tastings.

6. Vincent Arroyo

Vincent Arroyo is an example of a true entrepreneur. He created this vineyard out of the ranch originally on the grounds. Although Vincent used to do all of the work on his own, he now has help, and the family still runs the winery. Vincent’s signature Petit Sirah is an unforgettable wine.

7. Neal Family Vineyards

The same family has owned this vineyard for four decades. They are passionate and committed to winemaking as a tribute to the owner’s father. This is also a winery with interest in sustainable agriculture, so if you’re an eco-tourist, this is a great destination for you.

These are a few of the quickly-vanishing free tastings at wineries in Napa Valley. Check to make sure the free tastings are still offered as things change fast! Otherwise, enjoy some of Napa Valley’s best wines.

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The 9 best napa valley wine tours of 2024.

Guided tours are the most fun (and safest) way to enjoy Napa's world-famous wines.

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Courtesy of Napa Valley Wine Train

When it comes to drinking wine in Napa Valley , a guided tour isn't just an option; it's an essential experience. Not only will an organized tour provide you with local insight, but it's also a safe, easy and efficient way to sample the region's renowned wine.

From train rides through the countryside to private tours with your own chauffeur, these are the best Napa Valley wine tours based on recent traveler reviews. Note that participants must be 21 or older to participate in any of the recommended outings.

Napa Valley Wine Train – The Legacy Experience

Price: From $625 per person Duration: 6 hours

One of the most popular ways to explore California wine country, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a variety of experiences. Travelers wanting to visit some of the wineries should book The Legacy Experience, which stops at three vineyards, including two of the best wineries in Napa Valley : V. Sattui and Charles Krug. It also includes a photo-op at the historic Welcome to Napa Valley sign, a four-course meal (served throughout the day) and a welcome glass of sparkling wine. All wine tasting fees are included in the tour rate.

The tour lasts six hours in total, three of which are spent on the train. Check-in begins at 9:45 a.m., the train departs at 10:15 and the tour concludes around 4:30 p.m. Despite the steep cost of tickets (which varies by day), travelers say this Napa Valley wine tour is a must. They also note how delicious the food is.

Check prices & availability on:

Napa Valley Wine Trolley – Daily Tour

Price: From $125 per person Duration: 6.5 hours

Explore California wine country aboard one of the Napa Valley Wine Trolleys, which resemble San Francisco's iconic open-air cable cars. The six-hour Daily Tour stops at three wineries in the lower half of the valley; specific wineries vary from day to day. Drivers double as guides and provide information about the region and its best-known product, and patrons generally find them to be both very informative and amusing.

The tour departs from the Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa at 10 a.m. daily, with pickups at select Napa Valley hotels starting earlier. Tickets include transportation, guide gratuity and a picnic lunch, but exclude winery tasting fees, which range from $30 to $40 per person at each winery. If you're looking to visit Castello di Amorosa (the popular winery that resembles a castle) in particular, take the Up Valley Tour .

Platypus Wine Tours – Join-in Wine Tour of the Napa Valley

Price: From $130 per person Duration: 6.5 hours

Platypus Wine Tours escorts tour-takers to three area wineries over the course of approximately 6.5 hours. Wineries visited depend on availability and change from one tour to the next, though they tend to be small, family-owned operations. Drivers/guides earn enthusiastic praise for being knowledgeable, professional and personable. Tours typically depart from a central location in Napa (for those driving into Napa), but pickups from nearby hotels are also available. Group sizes range from eight to 12 participants.

Tickets include a picnic lunch at one of the stops as well as bottled water aboard the bus. Tasting fees at the wineries are not included. Platypus also offers tours of Sonoma Valley as well as private tours.

Courtesy of Napa Valley Bike Tours

Napa Valley Bike Tours – Full-Day Napa Valley E-bike Tour

Price: From $199 per person Duration: 5.5 hours

Cycle to two different wineries on this electric bike ride. Along the route, guides share information regarding the region and wine-making, and they are widely regarded as knowledgeable and helpful. The bike tours, which are restricted to six participants, begin in Yountville at 10:30 a.m. and end around 4:30 p.m.; this includes bike fitting and riding instruction.

Tickets include use of an e-bike and helmet as well as lunch from Bouchon Bakery, a local favorite. They do not cover winery tasting fees, though some of these fees may be waived with a minimum wine purchase. The tour covers a total of 12 to 17 miles, with an average 3 to 6 miles between stops. If that seems overwhelming, you can opt for a half-day outing with a stop at one winery.

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Napa Valley Wine Country Tours – Join-in Daily Wine Tour (Napa Hotels)

Price: From $119 per person Duration: 6 hours

You'll visit three wineries, ranging from well-known vineyards to small, family-owned establishments, on this Napa wine tour. Drivers, who are generally found to be both friendly and accommodating, provide insider information about the region during trips between the wineries. Along with the chauffeurs, travelers also enjoy the wineries selected for the tour. Buses pick up tourgoers from Napa area hotels between 10 and 11 a.m. and tours typically end at about 4 p.m.

The picnic lunch at one of the stops and tasting fees are not included.

Napa Native – Private Wine Tour

Price: From $570 Duration: 6 to 8 hours

A lifelong Napa Valley resident curates and leads this small-group tour. You'll visit three to four boutique wineries, providing your preferences to the company during the booking process. Guides share information about wine-making along the way, which tour-takers tend to find exceptionally insightful.

Tours rates can vary by group size and include a 20% gratuity. Tours start at 10 a.m. daily and include a break for lunch (which is not included in rates), or you can preorder a picnic lunch. Wine tasting fees are also extra. Napa Native Tours also offers a tour with a winemaker as well as tours for larger groups.

Courtesy of Laces & Limos

Laces & Limos – "Just Us 2" Napa Wine Safari

Price: From $695 for two people Duration: 5.5 hours

For your romantic getaway in California , book a private wine safari for two. Offered by Laces & Limos, this one-of-a-kind tour will take you to Napa Valley wineries in an open-air tuk-tuk, which departs the Archer Hotel in Napa at 11:30 a.m. daily. It also inclues a picnic lunch complete with charcuterie, cheeses and small bites. Recent reviewers say they were blown away by this tour, and especially enjoyed taking in the beautiful views and fresh air from their tuk-tuk.

Tasting fees at the wineries and gratuity are not included. Laces & Limos also offers another Napa Wine Safari for up to six people.

A Limo Excursion and Wine Tours LLC

Price: From $1,440 per group (up to 14 guests) Duration: 8 hours

Looking for someone to drive you to the Napa Valley wineries of your choice? You can do that, too. Especially fun for groups (think bachelorette parties and girls getaways ), this 14-passenger Mercedes limo sprinter bus is driven by a private chauffeur (who is always the highlight of the tour, according to recent tourgoers). The eight-hour winery tour includes stops at three to four vineyards, though wine tasting fees are not included in rates nor are gratuities.

Beau Wine Tours

Price: Varies by tour Duration: Varies by tour

Another customizable experience, Beau Wine Tours helps travelers choose the best vineyards to visit based on their wine preferences and the type of vinos each local American Viticultural Areas produces. The company offers a range of tours to suit all kinds of travelers, including the Intro to Napa Valley Tour, with the option to make it a multiday excursion; the Howell Mountain Tour, where you'll taste robust reds in Napa Valley's first AVA; and a Collector's Wine Tasting Tour to small, more exclusive wineries. Beau Wine Tours come highly recommended by travelers, especially for special events.

Frequently Asked Questions

August through October, which coincides with the harvesting season, is the best time to visit Napa Valley . March through May is also a nice, often less-crowded time to visit.

The best Napa wine tours start at around $120 per person; fees will increase depending on tour inclusions (such as meals, gratuities and tastings). Prices may also fluctuate based on tour group size as well as the time of year and day of week.

Yes, it is recommended that you tip both your tour guide and your tasting host at each vineyard. Some tours include gratuities in rates, which may be something you want to look for when booking your tour.

None of the wineries have a dress code, so opt for casual (but not too casual) and comfortable. Think flowy sundresses, wide leg pants, khaki shorts or pants, dark jeans and nice tops (blouses, collared shirts) with sandals or sneakers. You'll also want to bring a light jacket as it can get chilly on some of the vineyards, even in the summer.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel 

Amanda Norcross has previously traveled to Napa Valley, visiting select wineries on her own and also with a tour. She always recommends a tour, not just for a designated driver with a local's perspective, but also because you get to meet and imbibe with other fun and interesting tourgoers along the way. She used her personal experience and insights from other travelers to determine the best wine tours in Napa Valley. Cheers!

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Santa Barbara Wine Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in California
• The Best Small Towns to Visit in the U.S.

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35 Best Napa Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024

These are Some of the Best Napa Valley Wineries and Wine Tours, Along with Recommended Restaurants & Vineyard Hotels for Unique Tasting Experiences in 2024.

Napa Valley is  the most important wine region in the United States. It was the first American wine region to be fully internationally recognized for producing high-quality wines. And, the Valley has risen to the challenge with world-famous places to eat, drink, and stay.

In this Napa wine tasting guide, we explore wineries, tours, restaurants, and hotels in Napa to craft the ultimate wine country experience for Winetravelers.

Best Napa Wineries & Things to Do This Year

Napa wineries along st. helena highway.

St. Helena Highway runs north and south through most of the towns that dot Napa Valley. In fact, visitors can get a great overview of Napa Valley’s various AVAs just by driving along it! The following wineries can be found on or just off of St Helena Highway (aka Route 29/128), from south to north.

Domaine Chandon

1 California Drive, Yountville

(888) 242 6366

Why Guests Love It: Sparkling Wine, VIP Service, Food & Bubbly Pairings

Every wine tasting tour should start with bubbly, and Domaine Chandon is here to heed the call! Located just off St Helena Highway, the serene grounds provide the perfect backdrop to sip some sparkling and soak in the good life. Cheers!

Nickel & Nickel

8164 St Helena Hwy, Oakville

(707) 967-9600

Why Guests Love It: Single Vineyard Cabernets, Library Wines, Exceptional Service

Since Napa Cabs are really what put California on the global winemaking map, be sure to stop off at Nickel & Nickel . With a range of single vineyard Cabernets to try, it’s a fascinating trip through Napa terroir, all with premier white glove service. Try some older vintages if they’re available to see how beautifully Napa Cab can age.

RELATED: Learn More about Napa’s History, Terroir and Grape Varieties

Sequoia Grove

8338 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford

(707) 944-2945

Why Guests Love It: Classic Cabernets, Boutique Feel, Food & Wine Pairings

Sequoia Grove is almost the little engine that could in Napa, not because it’s any less mighty but because it’s lowkey and relaxed. It’s definitely worth stopping in, though, because the wood-timber building surrounded by sequoias and cypresses gives a distinctive Northern Californian feel. Everything produced is fantastic but take note of the quintessential cedar notes in their Cabs. They’re a standout.

Grgich Hills

1829 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford

(707) 963-2784

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Picnic Tastings, Eco-Focused

Named after its founders, Mike Grgich and Austin Hills, Grgich Hills is one of the more legendary wineries in Napa. Founded in 1977, it has consistently produced stellar wines to be tasted in an equally stellar stone building. Bonus: As of 2006, it uses only estate-grown fruit from its organic, biodynamic, and solar powered winery.

Corison Winery

987 St Helena Hwy, St Helena

(707) 963-0826

Why Guests Love It: Critically Acclaimed Wines, Female Winemaker, Vineyard Views

True trailblazers seem in short supply these days but thankfully Cathy Corison is still here. Year in and year out, she crafts award-winning Cabs from specific vineyard designations. She also produces a stunning Gewürztraminer and Riesling, both of which sing when paired with food. Be sure to snap up what you can because her wines consistently sell out.

401 St Helena Hwy South, St Helena

(707) 967-2626

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Artwork, Female Winemaker, Exceptional Wines

If the whimsical rabbit sculpture isn’t enough to make you stop, the wines most certainly will! Kathryn Hall comes by her craft genetical, having worked in her family’s vineyards north in Mendocino before striking out on her own. And although the Cabs are fabulous, cross the varietal line and taste their Merlots. You’ll be wowed.

The Salon at Heitz Cellar

436 St Helena Hwy, St Helena

(707) 963-2047

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Cheese & Charcuterie Boards, Age-Worthy Wines

Heitz has been around since 1961 – yes, you read that correctly. Everything about Heitz speaks to tradition, from the vineyard selections to the woodblock-esque labels. It’s worth stocking up here and laying some down to age because Heitz is known to develop beautifully for years.

Freemark Abbey

3022 St Helena Hwy N, St Helena

(800) 963-9698

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Stunning Architecture, Library Wines

Housed in a historic stone building that dates back to 1899, Freemark Abbey has consistently been a winery for over a century (except that during that little hiccup known as Prohibition). It further cemented its name in oenological history by being one of only twelve wineries invited to compete in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. Today, the wines remain standouts and tasting here brings guests on a trip through Napa history. 

Sterling Vineyards

1111 W Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga

(800) 726-6136

Why Guests Love It: Breathtaking Views, Tram Rides, Award Winning Wines

Sterling Vineyards unfortunately sustained significant damage during the Glass Fire of 2020 and has since been undergoing reconstruction. The good news for everyone is that it is due to reopen in the Spring of 2023! Sterling has been a longtime favorite because of the stunning views. Plan ahead to book a tour that includes a tram ride to the top of the vista point and sip through their lineup. It’s worth the wait.

Tank Garage Winery

1020 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga

(707) 942-8265

Why Guests Love It: Art Deco Architecture, Intriguing Wines, Small Production

Of all wine tasting experiences through Napa, Tank Garage is probably the most unique because it’s located in a 1930s Art Deco gas station! Tank isn’t for the faint-of-heart – the people there are known for sprinkling salty language around, but they sure provide a fun experience. The wines are just as interesting with everything from orange pét-nat to carbonic Grenache.

Top Napa Wineries along the Silverado Trail

Silverado Trail runs somewhat parallel to St Helena Highway on the east side of Napa. The two are close enough together to make it very easy to toggle between, but Silverado is decidedly quieter because village centers are found on St Helena Highway.

Chateau Montelena

1429 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga

(707) 942-5105

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Architecture, Napa History, VIP Service

Chateau Montelena is the perfect start to a day of winetasting. This gorgeous stone chateau is home to some legendary wines, including the Chardonnay that beat out white Burgundies in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. Taste through their elegant line up of Cabs or go rogue and try their Riesling – everything is stunning.

Clos Pegase Winery

1060 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga

(707) 942-4981

Why Guests Love It: Sleek Architecture, Quirky Sculptures, Cave Tours

Clos Pegase breaks rank with modern architecture and the quirky “friendship bench” but the wines are no less delightful. With a range of flight options, guests are encouraged to taste through all that Napa has to offer in a relaxing, elegant environment. Be sure to try all of the reds.

Honig Vineyard & Winery

850 Rutherford Rd, Rutherford

(707) 963-4272

Why Guests Love It: Eco Tours, Sustainable Winery, Fabulous Whites

Honig means ‘honey’ in German, which is denoted with the whimsical bees on Honig labels. And, Honig is true to its love of bees by being certified sustainable and solar powered. Book the Eco tour to learn all about Honig’s green practices before tasting through some beautiful wines, including their Sauvignon Blanc.

8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford

(800) 686-6272

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Views, Classic Sparkling Wine, Cheese Pairings

Is it bubbly time yet? Mumm Napa provides the best of French winemaking and Napa views. Guests can choose to taste through the delightful sparkling wines in a variety of settings, from patio seating to terrace tasting with cheese pairings.

8383 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 963-5188

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Views, Organic Farming, Warm Hospitality

Although technically in another town, ZD is just down the road from Mumm and is definitely worth the stop. While ZD may be smaller than some of the huge Napa wineries, it is no less impressive and produces rich, luscious wines that manage to maintain perfect balance. Taste through the lineup, or book a tour with sample of library wines.

Quixote Winery

6126 Siverado Trail, Napa

(707) 944-2659

Why Guests Love It: Quirky Atmosphere, Estate Tours, Food & Wine Pairings

And now for something completely different! To experience Quixote Winery is to experience a quirky, carnivalesque atmosphere while tasting through intriguing, small production wines. All fruit sourced from Stags Lead District, their wines sell out quickly so be sure to stock up while you can.

Stags’ Leap Winery

6150 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 257-5790

Why Guests Love It: Historic Winery, Beautiful Views, Exceptional Service

Stags’ Leap is another legendary Napa winery and is a must for those wanting to taste through the best the valley has to offer. Indulge in a porch tasting to experience the stunning views alongside the stunning wines. And, be sure to grab a bottle of Petite Sirah, which is a perennial favorite among critics.

Clos du Val Winery

5330 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 261-5212

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Views, Creative Events, High End Hospitality

Clos du Val is nestled back among the vines, providing a picturesque experience for visitors. Book a tasting in advance, or check out events like Apéro nights, or sparkling wine brunches. No matter what you try, you’ll love the attention to detail that weaves through both the wines and the estate.

4240 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 257-2345

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Architecture, Luxurious Pairings, Exceptional Service

Darioush is sort of like Madonna or Cher in that it needs no other name: Darioush is enough. And, for those that know it, the name Darioush means opulence and grandeur unlike anything else in Napa. Grounded in Persian culture, hospitality is elevated to an art form here. Be sure to reserve the Signature Mezza tasting to try the wines alongside traditional Persian mezze plates.

Judd’s Hill Winery & MicroCrush

2332 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 255-2332

Why Guests Love It: Small Production, Family Owned, Relaxed Environment

Judd’s Hill is an anomaly in Napa because it’s lowkey and very hands on. Still family owned, guests are encouraged to book tastings, pairings, or even play winemaker and blend their own wines! Another charming experience is their annual poetry contest, for which winners receive a 3-liter bottle but the real prize is being part of this 20+ year tradition.

Best Napa Wine Tours

While we’re thrilled to share our favorite wineries throughout Napa, we’re also big believers in letting the local pros do the heavy lifting. Here are some of the best guided and private tours that take the guesswork out of navigating Napa.

Platypus Tours Limited offers the perfect way to have a more intimate experience while tasting fabulous wines and not worry about driving. (Designated drivers are the heroes we need!) This half-day wine tasting tour takes you to three exceptional wineries and also includes a complimentary picnic lunch . Hotel pickup/dropoff are also included.

It doesn’t get much better when you’re able to blend the great outdoors with an awesome authentic wine tasting experience. Napa Native Wine Tours offers a full-day guided tour, beginning the day with a morning hike through some of Napa’s redwood forests and mountainscapes. In the afternoon, this particular experience focuses on boutique wineries , so you’ll avoid the crowds and some of the more corporate setups. Hotel pickup and dropoff is also offered, with the option to include lunch.

Step back in time and try the Napa Valley Open Air Wine Trolley ! This throwback trolley lets you soak up the vibe throughout the experience, with a stop-off for lunch.

One of the more iconic experiences any Napa visitor should try (especially if it’s your first time), is to see the Valley from the air. Napa Valley Balloons offers a wine country hot air balloon ride , a breathtaking way to experience Napa. The company also flies drones in tandem to capture images of the experience that you can take home with you.

Restaurants

Oxbow public market.

610 1 st St, Napa

(707) 226-6529

Oxbow is a great place to start the day and plan your attack. There are countless dining options, or you can stock up on nibbles to take with you. It’s almost like a mini Napa boiled down to offer everything you could possibly need for a luxurious day of wine tasting.

Bouchon Bistro

6534 Washington St, Yountville

(707) 944-8037

Located just down the street from The French Laundry, Bouchon Bistro offers Thomas Keller’s vision in a lower-key setting. Think traditional bistro fare with the freshest ingredients, like moules au safran and steak frites. And, the stunning wine list is worth taking time to browse because it’s got some gems available by the glass.

Gott’s Roadside

933 Main St, St Helena

(707) 963-3486

If you were to ask Siri to show you the most California dining option possible, she’d definitely pull up Gott’s Roadside . These unpretentious roadside joint offers classics like double cheeseburgers alongside kale salads and baja fish tacos. And, because it’s in wine country, its beverage offerings include everything from kombucha to high end Cabs.

Goose & Gander

1245 Spring St, St Helena

(707) 967-8779

We love everything about Goose & Gander , from the adorable craftsman house that it occupies to the British-pub-meets-California menu that changes seasonally. The vegetarian options, like watermelon salad or fried squash blossoms, mean that vegetarians won’t be left in the cold.

6525 Washington St, Yountville

(707) 945-1050

Spacious and rustic, Bottega offers delectable Italian in the heart of Yountville’s Gourmet Gulch. Classic dishes are paired with wine selections that are updated daily. Save room for dessert because they are to die for.

Gatehouse Restaurant

The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone

2555 Main St, St Helena

(707) 967-2300

Support fine dining of the future by booking a fantastic evening at The Gatehouse , where students of the CIA (not that CIA) hone their culinary skills. Choose three or four course menus, with or without sommelier-selected pairings – just be sure to make class is in session before you go.

Meritage Resort and Spa

875 Bordeax Way, Napa

The Meritage Resort and Spa is the ultimate place to really indulge in the decadence of Napa. Even the basic rooms are perfection, while the suites take it to the next level. Amenities include everything from wine tastings to cooking class to wellness activities. And, bring your best friend: there’s an on-site dog park. 

El Bonita Motel

195 Main St, St Helena

El Bonita hearkens back to the heyday of roadside motels in Americana. Basic accommodations in prime location make it the simple choice for an overnight after wine tasting. Book a poolside room for best access to the pool and hot tub.

SENZA Hotel

4066 Howard Lane, Napa

SENZA is off-the-beaten path just enough to provide guests with peace and quiet without being too far from everything. Each room has vineyard and/or garden views and amenities include a pool, a hot tub, and cabanas. There are also spa services available, like massages and facials.

Wine Country Inn & Cottages

1152 Lodi Ln, St Helena

This locally-owned establishment offers rooms and cottages in vineyard tranquility. Guests can take a dip in the heated swimming pool before warming themselves next to cottage fireplaces. The concierge is more than happy to recommend the best of Napa, from wineries to restaurants and more. Take a look at their current room rates .

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

1507 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga

We can’t say enough about Calistoga, the often overlooked village at the north end of Napa. It’s quaint, it’s cool, and it’s got an unbeatable vibe. Dr. Wilkinson’s is the epitome of Calistoga. It’s got such a throwback quality that we can’t help but love it. Whether you want a swim in a mineral pool, an indulgent mud bath, or a frolic on a tree swing, Dr. Wilkinson’s has you covered.

RELATED: 11 Wine Country Wellness Retreats to Stay at Around The World

Travel Logistics: Getting To and Around Napa

Napa the city is towards the southern end of Napa the valley and is only about an hour north of San Francisco. Visitors coming from further afield can fly to either San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport and drive from there. Since it is a quick jaunt from the Bay Area, it tends to be very busy on the weekends so midweek tastings often are the most relaxing (and available). You can check current flight deals into either airport right here.

Napa is also quite close to Sonoma Valley, which runs parallel on the west. However, mountain passes between the two are often very windy and can be quite dangerous to navigate, particularly at night. We recommend focusing on one valley or the other to fully enjoy the experience. Another great option is to leverage Green Dream Tours’ expertise to get a taste of both Napa and Sonoma on the same day. They offer round-trip transport from San Francisco, stopping at some exceptional boutique wineries in Sonoma and Napa.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Napa Wineries

What is the best time of year to visit napa wineries.

The best time to visit Napa wineries is during the spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) months, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is spectacular. Spring offers vibrant wildflowers and lush green landscapes, while fall showcases the grape harvest and the changing colors of the vine leaves. Summer is also a popular time, but can be crowded and hot, while winter is quieter and offers a more intimate experience.

How do I plan my visit to Napa wineries?

When planning your visit to Napa wineries, start by researching the wineries you’d like to visit, as there are over 400 to choose from. Consider factors such as the types of wines you enjoy, the winery’s ambiance, and any special experiences they offer. We list most of the best wineries in Napa and group them by location to create an efficient itinerary. Read our detailed guide to help you plan your trip. Keep in mind that many wineries in Napa require reservations for tastings and tours, so be sure to book ahead.

How many Napa wineries should I visit in one day?

To fully enjoy your Napa wine tasting experience without feeling rushed, it’s generally recommended to visit 3-5 wineries in one day. This allows ample time to savor the wines, explore the properties, and take breaks for meals or relaxation. However, be sure to have a designated driver on hand or hire one of our preferred drivers or private tours referenced in this guide.

What are the costs associated with wine tasting in Napa?

Tasting fees at Napa wineries can vary widely, typically ranging from $25 to $50 per person, with some high-end or exclusive wineries charging even more. Some wineries offer tastings that are refundable with a wine purchase, while others may waive the fee for wine club members. Guided tours, food pairings, and special experiences may come at an additional cost. To manage expenses, consider setting a daily budget for tastings and prioritize wineries that best align with your preferences.

How should I get around Napa Valley when visiting wineries?

There are several transportation options for exploring Napa wineries, including self-driving, hiring a private driver or tour guide, joining a group wine tour, or using a designated driver service. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, but it’s crucial to ensure responsible and safe transportation, especially if you plan to consume alcohol during your tastings. We give Winetravelers plenty of options in this guide to get around to Napa’s best wineries safely. Ask us any questions or for recommendations in the guide’s comments.

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Napa Valley Wine Tours

World-class wine tours and tastings are at the heart of Napa Valley’s allure. With more than 400 wineries scattered throughout the region, the options span the gamut from boutique wineries to prominent brand name producers. Local tourism agencies offer private wine tours, group tours, and transportation, making it easy for travelers to make the most of Napa Valley’s wine routes. Search by city or view all wine tour options in Napa Valley.

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Exclusive experience featuring lunch and world-class wines, located on a picturesque ridge 800 feet above the valley floor.

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Cruise around Napa on a private yacht. This cruise includes a 4-course dinner paired with AUM Cellars wine, poured by the winemaker.

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The 10 best Napa Valley wine tours to sip and see Wine Country

There are many ways to drink wine in Napa. Try one of these Napa Valley wine tours via hot air balloon, vintage train or stylish tuk-tuk.

One of the easiest ways to experience Napa Valley is on a fun tour. If you're planning to drive through Wine Country, consider booking an informative tour and tasting at one of the best wineries in Napa . If you'd rather leave the car behind,  you can board a train, zip around on a Segway, peddle through the vineyards on a bicycle or take in the view of the valley from a hot air balloon. A standard Napa Valley wine tour will cover the history of the winery and explain how wine is made, but may also include venturing into the cellars, vineyards, and even a museum or art gallery before ending with a wine tasting. Afterwards, sit down at one of the best restaurants in Napa before you head home. 

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Napa

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Best Napa Valley wine tours

1.  Domaine Carneros

Founded by the Tattinger Champagne house in France, the elegant and impressive Domaine Carneros chateau offers an information-packed daily tour that covers the history of the winery, as well as a quick trips to the vineyard and the winemaking, bottling, riddling/aging and disgorging areas. Along the way visitors are served four glasses of sparkling wines. The tour concludes with a glass of pinot noir and a cheese plate ($60). 

2.  The Hess Collection

The ivy-covered, former Christian Brothers winery building dates back to the early 1900s and currently houses an incredible contemporary art museum that’s free to visit. The Hess winery also offers several different tours and experiences, including a guided tour into the heart of the historic estate vineyards on an ATV. The tour makes several stops to admire the stunning views and enjoy glasses of wine. Combined with the vineyard tour is a wine tasting with cheese ($125) or a three course lunch that is paired with wine ($185).

3.  Robert Mondavi Winery

Heading through the Mission-style gateway entrance to the Robert Mondavi Winery feels grand. A leader in the industry, this legendary winery is a great place to learn about the history of the valley and winemaking. The in-depth winery tour gives visitors the chance to walk into the famous To Kalon Vineyard, see the winemaking cellars (including fermentation and barrel aging) and experience a seated educational tasting of three wines with a wine education specialist ($45).

4.  Palmaz

Just minutes from downtown Napa in the Coombsville AVA is an old property that employs the newest, high-tech winemaking techniques. The Palmaz family makes cabernet, chardonnay, muscat, riesling and rosé. The  comprehensive two-hour tour includes a walk through several levels of the cave, a visit to the fermentation dome where the data (including thermal imaging) from 24 large tanks is projected onto the ceiling, and a tasting of five wines paired with hors d’ oeuvres ($100). 

5.  Laces & Limos

Lace & Limos offers tuk tuk tours of Napa, allowing visitors an open air experience and the opportunity to jump on and off for tastings and exploration. Much more appealing than being stuck on a bus, the six-person vehicles take visitors to boutique winery estates, a seated cave tasting, a vineyard tour, food pairings. There are group and custom options available allowing you to choose how much time and the experiences you’d like to include. Standard tours are $99 for up to 5 hours.

6.  Napa Valley Wine Train

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The Wine Train is a leisurely way to experience the Napa Valley. The elegantly restored vintage train, which dates back to 1915, enables visitors to slow down and literally enjoy the ride. All the tours include a meal, and both half-day and full-day tours include stops at a winery for tastings. The round trip journey takes three hours starting in Napa and goes as far as St. Helena before turning back. Tours which include meals are $249 and up.

7.  Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Tours

Taking off early in the morning, hot air balloons float over Yountville and Pope Valley lettings visitors see the rural beauty of the valley in a totally unique way. Rides vary in time depending upon the weather, but typically last 40 minutes to an hour (the whole experience lasts 3-4 hours) with an optional Champagne brunch at the end. Tours start at about $200.

8.  Napa Valley Bike Tours

Napa Valley Bike Tours offers guided bike tours, bike rentals, self-guided tours and electric bikes. Visitors can start in Napa or Yountville and choose half- or full-day excursions and even add on a hot air balloon ride. The tours have different themes so whether you want to ride through To Kalon vineyard, visit an art collection or include a lunch or dinner, there’s a package for you. Most tours start at about $125.

9.  Segway Napa

Segway tours take place in Napa, Yountville and Calistoga and include options such as wine tasting at boutique wineries, exploration of wetlands, a historic tour, culinary tour and ghost tour. Tours range from $75–$99 and are 2–3 hours each and include a knowledgeable guide.  There are even tours for kids!

10.  The Prisoner Wine Company

Located just past Rutherford and before the town of St. Helena, The Prisoner has quickly built a loyal following for its dark and moody bottles and labels and bold and unconventional blends. Fans of the wine can book a $125 tour that takes them through the winery space, out to a small vineyard on the property and then to The Makery, a tasting space dedicated to the work of a variety of artists and craftspeople and their wares for a five-course food and wine experience.

Headed to Sonoma instead?

The 10 best Sonoma wineries

If Napa is Northern California’s land of wine-fueled luxury, with its chic wineries and tasting rooms, Sonoma is its laid back cousin: equally as beautiful with vineyards producing vintages just as world-class, but less crowded and somewhat more humble.

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THE 10 BEST Wine Tours & Tastings in Napa, CA

Wine tours & tastings in napa.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Sightseeing Tours
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• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley

2. Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley and Sonoma for 2 to 5 people.

3. 6 Hour Napa or Sonoma Valley Wine Tour by Private SUV

4. Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch

5. Best Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley-Sonoma for 4 to 8 people.

6. 8-Hour Private Sonoma or Napa Wine Tour with Concierge Service

7. Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley

8. Napa Private Wine Tour

9. Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup)

10. Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour

11. The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour

12. Shore Excursion: Napa and Sonoma Ultimate Wine Tasting Experience

13. San Francisco Half Day Wine Aficionado Tour with Tastings

14. Napa and Sonoma Valley Tasting Experience to Three Wineries

15. Private Sonoma and Napa Wine Tour from San Francisco

16. 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa

17. 6-Hour Exclusive Wine Tour Experience: Up to 6 Guests

18. 6-Hour Private Limousine Wine Country Tour of Napa or Sonoma

19. 6hr | 12 Passenger Mercedes Limo Sprinter Bus

20. Wine Pairing Fundamentals with Napa Sommelière

21. 8-Hour Exclusive Wine Tour Experience for up to 6 Guests / Napa-Sonoma

22. 6-Hour Private, Customized Wine Tour of Sonoma & Napa Valley

23. 6hr | 7 Passenger Mercedes Sprinter Limo Van Private Tour

24. Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour

25. Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière

26. 6-Hour Private Wine Country Tour of Napa Valley (up to 6 people) in Large SUV

27. 6-Hour Private Limousine Tour to Napa and Sonoma Valley Wineries

28. Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour

29. Private Napa Sonoma Wine Tour & Custom Concierge

30. Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley

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• Free Wine Tasting in Napa Valley
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• November 16, 2021

Updated 11/30/2017

Free wine tasting in Napa, the land of the $40 tasting fee? Surprisingly, it does exist, and free tastings aren’t confined to start-up wineries looking to introduce wine drinkers to their new wines. In fact, some very well-established and highly respected Napa wineries also provide free wine tastings.

Approximately half of the wineries that provide free tastings do so by appointment only, and the tastings usually occur with an owner or a family member and take at least thirty minutes. The remaining Napa wineries provide more of a high-volume, counter-style tasting environment.

If you’re looking to expeditiously drink copious amounts of free wine, visiting Napa wineries that provide free wine tasting is probably not the most effective way to do it. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a personal and educational wine tasting, and/or you’d rather spend your money on a bottle than a tasting fee, these wineries are for you. In that respect, they’re not much different than those wineries that apply your tasting fee to a purchase; unfortunately, the conditions for applying the fee vary drastically from winery to winery, and you could end up spending $350 just to get your $15 tasting fee waived.

Napa Valley wineries that provide complimentary wine tasting: 1. Buehler Vineyards (read winery review) 2. Heitz Wine Cellars (read winery review) 3. Homage Vineyard (read winery review) 4. Sutter Home Winery (read winery review) 5. Vincent Arroyo Winery

Click the image below to view the Napa Valley free wine tasting map.

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Napa Valley Wine Excursions

Proud Winner of the LuxeSF

Rising Wine Star Awards

~ Specializing in Custom Wine Tours Guided by a Napa Native ~

"Napa Valley Wine Excursions is the ONLY tour company I will ever use  again in wine country. Our family had an amazing experience with the tour, the wineries, the service. There is not a rating high enough to give this company. From the moment we arrived till the moment we left,  it was one of the best experiences we have ever had while on vacation. The service was phenomenal.  I would say, 'It's like the French Laundry of tour companies.'

You will not be disappointed."    ~ L. Ayers, NC (March, 2020)

With over five hundred wineries in the Napa Valley and nearly four hundred in Sonoma , planning the perfect trip to Wine Country can be overwhelming.  Additionally, many of the most remarkable winery experiences – barrel tastings, tours in the vineyards, and meeting with the winemakers themselves – are hidden gems off the beaten path and very easily missed. 

As the owner of Napa Valley Wine Excursions, i t is my pleasure to create a unique wine tour experience for you that only a Napa native can provide.   Having lived here my entire life, I have been fortunate enough to have established strong relationships with many of the most exclusive wineries in the Valley.  With a background in the wine industry as well,  I am equipped to create an experience that will give you a true taste of what the Napa Valley has to offer. 

Whether you are a novice or a wine expert, new to the Napa Valley or planning your annual visit here, we are happy to customize an itinerary for you.  Your day can include visits to the vineyards, caves, and tasting rooms of Napa’s most famous wineries.  In addition, you will enjoy the charm and intimacy of exceptional wines in the cellars and private homes of family-owned, boutique wineries.  During your tour, we will also provide you with context on the history of the Valley, as well as information on vineyard management, grape-growing, and wine-making.  

Contact us via e-mail or through our "Contact Us" page to begin planning your visit to Wine Country (please do not send text messages). For more information on Napa Valley Wine Excursions' range of services, have a look at our website. We look forward to hosting you in Wine Country!

 *  707.363.1397  *  [email protected]   *  TCP 34  933     * 

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Vine View Tours

Wine country tours, napa valley | sonoma, sonoma coast | healdsburg, vine view tours & transportation is a boutique, luxury transportation company located in napa, ca.  services include wine tours, dinner transportation, airport transfers and concierge services..

Concierge Services

If you don’t know where to visit but know you want to take the valley at your own pace you can get help planning your itinerary from a true Napa local, born and raised. Get help making reservations while adding in some of your own fun stops in between.

Private Transportation

Guests are transported privately to and from dinner to dine at the best restaurants in Napa and Sonoma. Guests can also reserve airport transfers to and from select airports in the bay area. This is provided as an hourly service to guests.

Visit wineries in style and luxury throughout Napa and Sonoma counties. Experience vineyard views and vistas, tour wine caves and barrel cellars, experience food and wine pairings. These are just some of the options that can be arranged.

Apr 28, 2024 • 11 min read

Get to know Napa Valley with our first-timer's guide © Cassiohabib / Shutterstock

Napa Valley is synonymous with luxury. Posh hotels, chef-driven restaurants and extravagant tasting fees cemented that reputation decades ago.

But at its core, Napa is farm country— a place where people dig in the dirt and make a living from the land. Despite all odds, this gives Napa a grounded feeling, even in its swankiest spaces. At the end of the day, visitors come to Napa Valley because they love food, wine and beautiful scenery. It’s a passion shared by the community of this incredible locale. 

The five towns of Napa Valley (St Helena, Yountville, the city of Napa , Calistoga  and American Canyon) are home to 16 wine appellations and more than 400 wineries. The options can be daunting to first-time visitors but we’re here to help. From mud baths in Calistoga to tips for visiting wineries, our first-timer’s guide to Napa Valley will give you everything you need to know to plan a trip here, including the best hotels, wineries, restaurants and activities.

When is the best time to visit Napa? 

It’s always a good time to visit Napa in our book, however, the timing of your trip will impact your experience. Peak tourist season is in summer when the average high temperature is 82°F. If you plan to visit this time of year, you’re unlikely to find any bargains. Make your reservations for lodging, restaurants and wineries as far in advance as you can.

Spring and fall are the next busiest times of the year. Spring brings average high temperatures of 68°F while in fall, high temperatures average 78°F. The lower, but still pleasant, temps are especially appealing for visitors who plan to hike, bike or engage in other outdoor activities. 

Winter temperatures reach an average high of 60°F. This season gets the most rain (although this is California so there will still be plenty of dry, beautiful days). Since winter is the least crowded, it is the most affordable time to visit Napa with many hotels, resorts and spas advertising special packages and discounts off their regular rates.

How much time should I spend in Napa? 

Set aside three to four days for your Napa Valley itinerary. This allows enough time to visit your top wineries and restaurants, plus time for other activities like spa treatments, hiking, lounging by the pool or riding the wine train.

What are the top things to do in Napa Valley? 

Most people come to Napa to visit wineries – more on that later – but don’t overlook Napa’s exceptional culinary, wellness and recreation opportunities.

You can get filthy (in the best possible way) at the north end of the county in Calistoga. Calistoga is recognized around the world for mud made with a mixture of mineral-packed volcanic soil and water drawn from local hot springs. The two most common treatments involve painting it on your body or soaking in a tub of warm, nurturing mud. At least seven spas offer Calistoga mud experiences including the luxurious Spa Talisa at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences and the do-it-yourself mud bar at MoonAcre Spa and Baths . 

Calistoga is also home to two of Napa Valley’s most unique natural attractions. The Old Faithful Geyser is a smaller, but still impressive version of Yellowstone’s most famous jet spout . In Calistoga, Old Faithful shoots hot water 30–80ft towards the sky every 10 to 20 minutes. Just outside of Calistoga at the Napa/Sonoma border, a three million-year-old petrified forest with 1.5 miles of hiking trails provides a fascinating glimpse at geological history. 

No trip to the valley would be complete without a trip to downtown Napa’s Oxbow Public Market ,  a 40,000-sq-ft marketplace packed with locally sourced culinary delights. From California-grown olive oil at the Olive Press to artisan cheeses at the Oxbow Cheese and Wine Merchant , this is the place to stock up for a picnic or edible souvenirs. You’ll also find a bookstore, distillery, bakeries and restaurants. After you’ve finished browsing, find a seat on the riverfront deck out back to sample fresh oysters on the half shell from Hog Island Oyster Bar .  

With menus centered around locally-grown ingredients, Napa is almost as famous for fine dining as it is for wine. Food this fresh is revelatory. A dish, such as fermented soy dip served with raw vegetables pulled from the ground at the Charter Oak , will ruin you forever for grocery store veggies. Other bucket-list dining experiences include the six-course prix-fixe chef’s tasting menu at La Toque , the daily tasting menu at the French Laundry , and Kenzo Napa , where seafood is flown in daily from the finest fish market in Japan. Please note that reservations at these restaurants are coveted, and should be made as far as possible in advance. 

Don’t let these vaunted names fool you into thinking you need to spend a fortune to get a good meal in Napa. The valley is filled with scores of reasonably-priced restaurants including Heritage Eats in Napa where you can feast on comfort foods like a smoked ham bowl or white cheddar mac and cheese for less than $15 a person. For tasting menus, Thomas Keller’s ad hoc offers a daily tasting menu currently priced at $56 a person for lunch or $69 a person at dinner. The  Gate House Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America offers three courses prepared by student chefs for $35 at lunch or four courses for $45 at dinner (please note that restaurant prices are always subject to change). 

For nightlife, the Blue Note Napa Jazz Club hosts an exciting mix of live performances ranging from household names to rising stars and tribute bands. It also holds the Summer Sessions outdoor concert series and the Black Radio Experience at the Meritage Resort and Spa . If you’re on the hunt for a good dive bar, Ana’s Cantina in downtown St Helena is the place for a game of pool, tunes from the jukebox and a stiff drink.

Other top activities in Napa Valley include hiking or biking the 12.5-mile  Napa Valley Vine Trail , which will eventually extend 47 miles from Vallejo to Calistoga.

Tips for visiting wineries in Napa 

Gone are the days when you can walk into virtually any Napa Valley winery and ask for a tasting without an appointment (or even a fee). Although there are a few wineries like Hall Wines in St Helena, where walk-ins are welcome, reservations are required at most wineries in Napa Valley. This helps ensure the wineries have adequate time to guide you through your tasting. From the guest's perspective, appointments are helpful when it comes to budgeting, arranging transportation and planning your Napa itinerary.

The average wine tasting fee in Napa Valley is $40 per person but it isn’t unusual for prices to climb to $200 or even more. Most wineries have a menu of tasting options, with standard tastings at the low end and premium experiences with food pairings, library wines, or guided tours commanding a higher price. Please note that the tip is not included in the tasting price so it will need to be factored into your budget. 

Expect to spend at least 90 minutes at each winery (often longer for premium experiences). For this reason, it’s best to stick to no more than two or three tasting room visits a day. We recommend clustering each day’s reservations in the same area so you won’t have to rush between wineries. For instance, in the Stag’s Leap District, Cliff Lede Vineyards and Baldacci Family Vineyards are only a mile apart. Cliff Lede’s Backstage Lounge Tasting Room Experience offers an elevated tasting with premium wines in a room filled with rotating art and rare rock memorabilia. At Baldacci, the Cave Tour and Tasting Experience includes a cave tour and barrel tasting followed by a seated tasting paired with seasonal appetizers. 

In the Rutherford area, Sullivan Winery is only half a mile from the Prisoner Wine Company . At Sullivan, the Merlot Mastery Tasting starts with a tour of the gardens and grounds before moving on to a seated tasting with two flights of its prized merlot accompanied by light bites. At Prisoner, you’ll find many culinary pairings including the Wine and Dim Sum Experience. 

Attire is wine country casual. A pair of nice jeans, golf shirts, sundresses or casual blouses are the norm in Napa Valley. Do wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk through the vineyards or participate in a tour.

Expert tip: The Covet Pass offers complimentary tastings at seven Napa wineries and seven Sonoma wineries, plus additional discounts for a one-time fee of $150. 

How to get around in Napa without a car

Napa Valley is 30 miles long and stretches at most 5 miles wide. In this sense, Napa is small and easy to navigate, but driving can be tricky in a destination centered around wine. Luckily, if you don’t have a designated driver there are several ways to get around Napa without a car. 

The Napa Valley Wine Train offers several tasting journeys including a 36-mile roundtrip through gorgeous scenery to disembark for seated tastings at Charles Krug Winery and V. Sattui Winery . A four-course lunch is served onboard. You can also hitch a ride to three tasting rooms in an open-air San Francisco cable car on the Napa Valley Wine Trolley . 

Many tour operators provide transportation to Napa wineries. Several, like Napa Valley Wine Country Tours , offer a choice between public group tours, which are less expensive, or private tours with a customized itinerary. 

If you prefer to get around by foot, base yourself in the cities of Napa or Yountville. Napa has more than 50 downtown tasting rooms and there are 14 walkable tasting rooms in downtown Yountville. 

Where to stay

If there was ever a place to treat yourself to a nice hotel, it’s Napa Valley. The region is home to some of the best hotels in the country, with grounds and accommodations so astonishingly beautiful you might not want to leave to go wine tasting (but definitely leave to go wine tasting). If you’re in the position to splurge our top picks are: 

The Poetry Inn is an exclusive property with only five guest rooms and a small, on-site spa. The all-suite hotel is the epitome of privacy and luxury with huge guest rooms featuring private sitting areas, outdoor patios, and indoor and outdoor showers with stunning hillside or vineyard views. A gourmet multicourse breakfast is included with each stay. Poetry Inn is the only hotel in the Stag Leap district. 

Meadowood Napa Valley in St Helena is set on a magnificent 250-acre estate with mature, oaks and native plants surrounding 36 suites and guest rooms with soaking tubs and private outdoor sitting areas. Hiking trails, tennis courts, swimming pools, a Wine Center and a tranquil spa ensure you’ll never lack activities during your stay. 

Carneros Resort and Spa offers standalone cottages and homes surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards in Napa. Amenities include a luxurious onsite spa, two swimming pools, pickle ball courts with an adjacent Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar and Lounge, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and access to Cadillac Luxury Vehicles during your stay. 

If a mid-range hotel is better suited for your budget we recommend the Meritage Resort and Spa or Silverado Resort . The Meritage offers perks like a complimentary shuttle service to downtown Napa and a verdant lawn surrounded by tasting rooms and an upscale market. At the Silverado Resort, amenities include golf courses, bocce ball courts, a pool and a fitness center.

The most affordable lodging options in Napa Valley are generally found in American Canyon, which offers several reliable, reasonably-priced chains such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Napa Valley American Canyon and Holiday Inn Express and Suites Napa Valley American Canyon .

My favorite thing to do in Napa 

When I come to Napa I love to take a class to enhance my appreciation of food and wine or learn a fun, new skill. I’ve never been anywhere else where classes are so varied and accessible, so I take advantage whenever I can. Often, these classes are offered directly through my hotel. The Wine Center at Meadowood Napa Valley runs classes ranging from introductory tutorials on Napa wine to advanced courses on subjects like the history of the wine label. Carneros Resort and Spa has a dazzling array of daily classes focusing on everything from sabering champagne bottles to pickleball. 

The Culinary Institute of America is my hands-down choice for cooking classes with options for group or private instruction. I’ve also found classes offered at Napa Valley wineries. Bouchaine Vineyards regularly hosts an exciting roster of sessions on topics like pairing wine and cheese, blending wine and even falconry. 

How much do you need to budget for a trip to Napa?

The amount you’ll need to spend on a trip to Napa is highly variable depending on your itinerary and even the season you choose to visit. Although it is generally considered a luxury destination, you can still plan an affordable trip to Napa with the tips and tricks in this first-timer’s guide. The numbers below are not definitive but will provide a general idea of how much it costs for budget-conscious, midrange, and luxury travelers to visit Napa.

• Hotel room for two: $100–1200 a night 
• Rental home/Airbnb for two: $200–1000 a night 
• Wine tasting fees: $25–250 per person at each winery (not including tip) 
• Lunch for two: $30–100 per person
• Dinner for two: $100–300 per person (or more)
• Glass of wine: $13–50 
• Bottle of wine: $108 average
• Group shuttle to wineries: $125 per person
• Private transportation to wineries: $600 (and up) 
• Spa treatment: $100–400 per person (and up)

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Vintage House at The Estate Yountville

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VINTAGE HOUSE AT THE ESTATE YOUNTVILLE - Updated 2024

Why Lower Napa Valley Is Now The Hottest Spot In California Wine Country

Forget what you think you know about Napa, because the soul of the valley has shifted south. 

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Over the past few years, the heartbeat of the Napa Valley has shifted southward from places like St. Helena and Yountville to the slopes and foothills north of the town of Napa—a city that not all that long ago was something visitors ignored on the way to tonier spots to the north. But new vineyards in the area, new restaurants, and slightly more affordable housing has shifted the axis of energy in the Napa Valley. If you want to feel the new pulse of Napa, this is where you want to be.

I got my first real introduction to Napa Valley as a bartender at the Chateau Marmont hotel in Hollywood. As a bartender at a high-end California hotel, I naturally poured a hell of a lot of Napa wine. And in order to do that without making a fool of myself, I sat through many tastings that I resented getting out of bed for in my twenties, but which I now realize were an incredible opportunity for free wine training.

But back in the early 2000s, any time I’d ask a winemaker or wine sales rep about visiting Napa, I always got the same advice: avoid the town of Napa on your way up the valley to the real Napa. Like any noob wanting to assert my lack of noob-ness, I adopted any pro-grade snobbery I could. But after spending a week recently in and around the town of Napa, that advice has flip-flopped—if you want to do Napa like the locals and avoid the tourist crowds, stay down-valley and explore the city of Napa. 

Getting There

We landed at SFO and had a Lamborghini Urus Performante waiting for us to test drive en route to the Napa Valley. The Urus was a nice boost of confidence for venturing into a valley that humbles multi-millionaires. The common wine world adage still holds true: “How do you make a little money in the wine business? Start out with a lot of money.”  

Running on old instincts of my past trips to Napa, I headed to lunch at Bouchon Bakery in Yountville—a Thomas Keller joint a stone’s throw from The French Laundry. A decade ago, the bakery felt like the heart of the Napa experience to me. But as my wife and I approached it to find a cluster of selfie-taking tourists buying pricey bags of macarons and not tipping the staff, I realized I had made the wrong move. The food was fine, but the experience reinforced what would become the thesis of this article—forget what you think you know about Napa, because the soul of the valley has shifted south. 

A large automatic wooden gate opened onto Roy Estate’s 17-acre vineyard. The Lambo roared in, and we followed a gravel road past vineyard workers pruning vines for the upcoming harvest. At the top of a hill stood the stunning La Résidence, a modern mansion of stone, glass, and steel that is equal parts home, hospitality space, and winery.

A good friend in the wine business once told me that the best wine producers aren’t the one with the biggest tasting rooms, or even public tasting rooms at all. That is certainly the case with Roy Estate, where tastings, private dinners, and overnight stays are handled by appointment.  

The Urus’ engine announced our arrival, and Estate Director Bryan Zupon stepped out of his office in a modern outbuilding to show us to our quarters for the next two nights––a sleek ultra-modern studio with a wall of glass overlooking a vineyard. The studio, like La Résidence itself, is brand new. The vineyard and its main building were destroyed in the 2017 Atlas Fire, and everything had to be rebuilt. Mercifully, the fire did not destroy the vines themselves.   

In a past life, this property was golfer Johnny Miller’s Double-Eagle Ranch—so-named for a shot in his breakout tournament in the 1970s. In 1999, the Roy family bought the ranch and began its life as a small producer of extremely high-quality wine. In 2017, the vineyard was purchased by husband and wife team Stephany Maillery and Stephan Crétier just before the Atlas Fire consumed the buildings. Crétier is the President and CEO of GardaWorld security corporation, the largest private security provider in the world. The French Canadian couple also recently purchased Napa’s Vine Cliff winery, in 2023. 

Knowing I’d want to enjoy some Roy Estate wine that night without being responsible for a press-fleet supercar, my wife and I hopped into the back of Zupon’s convertible and headed to Scala Osteria in downtown Napa.

Opened in 2022, Scala is a prime example of the evolution of the city’s restaurant scene over the past few years. Sitting at a front window table in the bright, airy restaurant was perfect for people watching on the bustling sidewalk outside. We feasted on dishes like wood-fired clams, homemade ravioli, and Petrale Sole Piccata until long after the hostesses began hovering in hopes that we’d vacate the table. I finally had to be coaxed out by my wife with the promise of a Roy Estate cab nightcap waiting for us back at the vineyard.

Our second day began with a tour of the vineyards on foot—a hilly terrain with a mix of different soil types that create noticeable nuances in wines made from grapes grown as little as 10 feet apart. The fact that it’s all estate, single-vintage wine keeps the production small. But the 1,500 or so cases they do produce annually are all exquisite. 

For lunch, Roy Estate Executive Chef Tom Stafford prepared an incredible meal with the best pork I’ve ever eaten, or may ever eat—Japanese Kurobuta that, like everything else that made its way into our four course meal, was hand-selected by Stafford.

We tasted through Roy’s range during the lunch. They describe their Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Cru as, “a pure and powerful expression of Napa Valley’s Best. Next was “Mr. Evans,” a Bordeaux varietal blend named for their next door neighbor, a well-known Napa local whose home was destroyed by the fire (only the hot tub, swimming pool, foundation, and chimney remain) but whose property has a sprawling and surreal sculpture garden that remained intact. Roy’s flagship cabernet is called La Rêveuse, and they only make 50 cases per vintage—every step by hand. 

At dinner that night, we got a chance to sit down with Roy Estate’s winemaker, Philippe Melka, at another great Italian restaurant further up the valley, Ciccio . The restaurant is owned by Frank and Karen Altamura, whose Altamura wine I used to pour nightly when I bartended at Hollywood’s Chateau Marmont.

Guys like Melka are treated like rock stars in Napa, and they command serious fees to not just apply their knowledge but also their brand name to a wine—similar to a car manufacturer hiring a high-profile racecar driver. Winemakers like him work all the time, and even sitting across from me at dinner, Melka had the energy of a runner stopping for a cup of water mid-race.

It’s clear that sitting in one place is not his normal pace. He explained over dinner that, more and more, “there is no ‘one’ Napa,” and that despite its reputation for a specific kind of B.D.E. cabs, there are many different types of wine being made here now and different experiences to be had throughout the valley. 

With chef-grade breakfast sandwiches from Contimo in hand, we enjoyed one last stroll through the vineyard before heading out to visit some other nearby vineyards that are helping establish this part of the valley as one to watch in the wine world. 

Our first stop was Ellman Vineyards , where we met proprietor Neil Ellman and General Manager Justin Vazquez. The South Africa-born Ellman is a third-generation mattress manufacturing magnate with big plans for the vineyard, including a tasting room that is under construction. Testament to Ellman’s vision for his wine is the fact that he’s hired Andy Erickson, another Napa rock star winemaker, with names like Screaming Eagle and Mayacamas under his belt. Vasquez walks us through a tasting of their flagship cabernet, their blends, and their sauvignon blanc––all as extraordinary as expected given the team involved. 

Our next stop was Burgess Cellars , which has another Phoenix story after being destroyed by the 2020 Glass Fire. After the fire, Burgess purchased the adjacent Luna Vineyards. They’ve rebuilt at Luna after the fire—a building with an elegant white and pastel tasting room and a wood-paneled private speakeasy in the back with a mirrored wine and aperitivo bar.  

After drinking a 2011 cab from Burgess in the back room, we headed into the city of Napa to the Milliken Creek Inn . With a commanding water view at the juncture of the Napa River and Milliken Creek, the hotel makes the most of its water views. Even though it’s only a mile from the center of downtown Napa, it feels pastoral. On one side of the property are Zen gardens with fountains, and on the other side are chaise lounges overlooking the lush, undeveloped banks of the river.  

A short Uber into downtown brought us to California Brandy House , a temple of the fine brandies being produced by Germain-Robin and Argonaut. Writing about booze has introduced me to both, and I have developed a particular love for Germain-Robin , which is made with an emphasis on using even better grapes than their French counterparts—Pinot Noir, Riesling, Viognier, Sémillon, and Colombard—and distilled in small batches in copper Alembic stills.

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Tasting through the Germain-Robin range, and a few rare expressions that I’d never tried before, alongside charcuterie and chocolates while people-watching in downtown Napa was happy hour done right, but maybe an excess of decadence considering what was to come that evening. 

A short walk around the corner brought us to Torc Napa , for what would be not just the best dinner of the trip, but one of the best meals I’ve ever had. Chef and owner Sean O’Toole came to the table after we sat down and told us not to order anything. He would be handling our menu, and his wife and business partner, Cynthia, would handle our wine pairings. 

“We are going to hurt you,” he said with a cherubic grin. 

O’Toole turned out to be a man of his word. 

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As course after course came and went—black truffle grilled cheese sandwiches, Himachi tartare, homemade agnolotti, prime filet, seared diver scallops—each course arriving with new wine selections from Cynthia. By the time we got to the Sauternes and house-made panna cotta, any thoughts of post-dinner plans had vanished. This would be a night to go back to the hotel and do nothing but bask in the decadence of our dinner. 

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Our last winery stop was at another new vineyard helping put the lower Napa Valley on the map for serious wine collectors: Seven Apart . Seven Apart began with the purchase of the nearby Atlas Peak vineyard, in 2018, known for its dense soil studded with volcanic rock. It is very hard to reach at 1,475 feet above the valley floor, but it yields extraordinary wine.

Seven Apart’s managing partner Yannick Girardo met us down the hill from Atlas Peak at their Base Camp Vineyard, home to immaculate modern building for tastings, winemaking, and barrel storage. Dressed in a suit on a Sunday, Girardo is a Frenchman who you get the sense is always dressed in a suit. And he walked us through a tour of their Atlas Peak soil types through the wine it yields—a Shale Cabernet with a silky quality from the sedimentary shale, a dark and rich Basalt Cabernet, and their finest Summit Cabernet made from their highest-grown grapes. 

That afternoon we went to the Napa Food Mart, a gourmet food hall, for coffee at Ritual Coffee Roasters . After four days of tastings, we had gotten on a pendulum-swing schedule of wine and caffeine to keep us going strong. Neil Young was in town playing a show, and we had big plans to get tickets that died on the hill of Ticketmaster roadblocks. 

After a happy-hour wine tasting at the Milliken Creek Inn with a wild couple from Texas, we retired to our hotel room that was well-stocked with wine, and realized we could hear Neil’s voice echoing towards up the river. 

We sat in a pair of chaises overlooking the water as the sun set, washing down takeout Thai with some of the best Napa Cab I’ve ever had. Picnicking by the river while listening to the faint sounds of Young singing “Down By The River,” we may have been a long way from The French Laundry or the venerable vineyards of Oakville, but there was nowhere else that we’d rather be. 

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Top 10 Free Things to Do in Napa Valley

April 3, 2023.

Yes, Napa Valley is one of the most luxurious luxury destinations in the world. That doesn’t mean everything here costs a pretty penny. The truth is that Napa County boasts a host of destinations and activities that are totally free.

Here are our top 10 free  things to do :

Visit the Napa Valley Welcome Center

The Napa Valley Welcome Center , located in downtown Napa, not only has expert staff to help you plan their itinerary, but they often have intel on the best deals in Napa Valley. Be sure to check it out during your trip to get the latest information on where to visit and the inside scoop on free (or nearly free) events and activities. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a “popup” event day you’ll be treated to a sample of wine, a bite of food, or a giveaway item from Napa Valley wineries, restaurants, hotels, and activities.

Take a hike

Napa Valley is known for its spectacular vistas, and there are plenty of hikes up and down the valley that let visitors soak in the views. A few of our favorites places to take to the trails include Alston Park , Moore Creek Park , Robert Louis Stevenson State Park , and Westwood Hills Park . Other parks with nominal fees include Skyline Wilderness Park and Bothe-Napa Valley State Park .

Browse the farmers’ markets

Weekend visitors can take in the Napa Farmers’ Market on Saturdays (also Tuesdays in April – October), which is the county’s largest and regularly boasts more than 100 vendors, artisans, and purveyors. In the summer on Fridays, St. Helena’s Farmers Market is located in the beautiful Crane Park, while the Calistoga Farmers’ Market is open year-round on Saturday mornings. Insider Tip : go before 9 a.m. to score the best treats and avoid long lines.

Explore Napa Valley’s art scene

Each town in Napa Valley has its own distinct take on art . The Rail Arts District (RAD) Napa in downtown Napa makes the most of the Napa Valley Vine Trail, while Yountville’s 40 outdoor works of art are woven throughout the small town. Jessel Gallery offers the opportunity to view stunning artworks inspired by Napa Valley, and visitors can even catch local artists at work.

Bike or walk the Vine Trail

The Napa Valley Vine Trail , which currently runs from downtown Napa to Yountville , goes straight through the heart of Napa Valley. The trail is open to bikes and pedestrians (or anyone not on a motor vehicle), ensuring a safe and comfortable ride even for less confident cyclists.

Savor every town

The City of Napa , Yountville , St. Helena , and Calistoga have lively downtown areas filled with shops , restaurants , art galleries , and tasting rooms . Spend time walking the main street of each town and checking out the distinct flavor that each Napa Valley town has to offer.

Get your groove on with live music

Napa Valley is quickly becoming known as a can’t miss destination for live music . While festivals like BottleRock Napa Valley can make a dent in your pocketbook, you can also find free music experiences up and down the valley. Many restaurants, hotels, and wine tasting rooms have free local live music. In the summertime, the City of Napa, Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga all host free concerts for locals and visitors alike – so pack a picnic and pull up a patch of grass to enjoy.

Visit during Cabernet Season

The winter months, which Napa Valley locals call Cabernet Season , feature free local events that you can’t catch any other time of year. Visitors can celebrate in the holiday season at St. Helena’s Wine Barrel Tree Lighting, or watch the tractors go by at the Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade. Come January, the Napa Lighted Art Festival in downtown Napa is a can’t miss and pairs perfectly with a hot chocolate.

Discover the Oxbow Commons

Oxbow Public Market is on the top of every must-see in downtown Napa list, so be sure to stop by to peruse the stalls from local merchants and vendors, and pick up a souvenir for friends and family back home. Then, head next door to the Culinary Institute of America at Copia to see the culinary gardens before heading inside to view the Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum, an homage to the founder of Williams-Sonoma.

Stop at the Sign

The iconic Welcome to the Napa Valley signs – both are located on Highway 29, one is near Oakville and the other is “up valley” in Calistoga – were Instagram-worthy before Instagram was even a thing. Insider Tip : go during Napa Valley’s golden hour to capture the best light!

Erin First is a Northern California native and lover of food, wine and everything Napa Valley has to offer.

Experience Napa Valley

Tasting rooms & wine bars, restaurants, book your stay, boutique inns.

Nestled among rolling hills, charming neighborhoods, and storied vineyards are the most charming boutique inns

From impeccable design to lavish landscapes, Napa Valley hotels have the creature comforts and amenities for you and your loved ones

A wonderland for grown-ups, Napa Valley resorts cater to outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, bon vivants and those seeking serenity

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