Welcome to the winery country of Napa Valley and explore the country with the Napa Valley guide
Wines, Vibrant culture, and cuisines are three appropriate words to define Napa Valley. As I love exploring the culture of different cities, So, this time I end up discovering Napa Valley. Its vibrant culture and the top vineyards make this destination a unique place to visit. And as I am a big foodie, I always have a desire to enjoy the different flavors around the world. Napa is best known for serving up some of the top vineyards outside of France (and arguably, some of the best wines in the world). The rolling hills and sunny skies make the region a picturesque spot for a quick getaway. And while wine is the main draw, there’s plenty to explore—and all just a two-hour drive north of San Francisco. Also, you can discover more with a Napa Valley guide throughout your journey.
There are a number of towns throughout the valley that are filled with quaint shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, glamorous hotels, and unique spa experiences. With over 400 wineries in the area, Napa Valley has something for everyone. So, whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a fun getaway with your family and friends, Napa Valley is the perfect place to plan your getaway. With various flights to Napa Valley available you can always plan your journey and enjoy your getaway with your loved ones. Let’s take a look at my itinerary through which you can plan your getaway to discover Napa Valley:
The Best Time to Explore Napa Valley
Initially, I had no idea about the best season to discover more about Napa Valley. But thanks to my digital research, before booking my flight ticket I have picked the right time to visit. Well, the best time to visit Napa Valley starts between August to October. During these months you will not only explore this region but also you are going to enjoy the annual grape harvest which corresponds between these months. If you are a summer person, Besides, explore the wine region during fall and winter as the holiday spirit gets all-time-high during this season.
Things to Know
The beauty of this valley is its geographic spread. The first thing that I did while reaching this area was rent a car. Cars are the best transportation in this region. Before visiting the place you just need to make sure that you have a designated driver while visiting the wineries. You can also prefer public transportation as well to explore this area. Also, you can find various cheap flights to Napa Valley during the off-season in the city. Another important thing that you should not miss is to pack a variety of outfits as the temperature soars up to the 90’s during summer. Winters can be harsh here and it is advisable to bring some winter clothes. Even the evenings during summer can be windy and cold. My biggest regret was not taking my Jacket.
How to Get Around
Trains:
I personally love traveling by train. So, my first day began by reserving the seats in Amtrak San Joaquins which took us from the bay area straight to the heart of downtown Napa. From two to three hours this ride takes anywhere depending on whether you are leaving from Emeryville or the Salesforce Plaza. You can also explore more and can know more about the various places with the Napa Valley guide.
Buses
If you do not like traveling by train then you can also take Napa Valley’s bus system which is called The Vine which runs from El Cerrito Del Norte all the way up to Calistoga.
Taxis
Another transportation service that you can take is Taxi in Napa Valley through which you can explore and visit various places in Napa Valley. You can also find Vern’s Taxi service and Yellow Can Napa out there which are the best taxi services in the world. Also, if you want to travel the whole day in Napa Valley then you can also hire private taxi services that are safe through which you can travel the whole day in Napa Valley without paying extra expense.
Neighborhoods to Know
Napa Valley California is a beautiful destination that has various towns. From great dining to the hotels you can enjoy the wide variety of cuisines here. I really enjoy dining at Tarla Mediterranean Bar & Grill in Napa Valley. Here you will get really confused about what to pick between their ample varieties of dishes. You can also choose to visit this valley according to your budget and time. Before visiting Napa Valley, I have already pre-planned my journey according to it. Which includes the accommodation, my outfits and what to cover in a week in Napa Valley and where to gain more information about the wine production, and many more.I have gathered some of the famous neighborhood information which you should not miss while visiting to Napa Valley:
Yountville
The famous neighborhood of Napa Valley which was notably the home to Thomas Keller’s famed French Laundry and holds the three Michelin Stars. I visited there on my first day and gathered knowledge about the neighborhood and its culture. Also, I have explored the wineries of this neighborhood through which I have learned more about how wine is made and packed and many more. It was all a fun process.
St. Helena
My second day started by exploring the charming town of St. Helena which is a beautiful town filled with a bunch of restaurants and shops that line its main street. Also, it is the main home to the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. You can also take cooking classes and sample some wines from the on-site Christians Brothers Winery.
Calistoga:
My third day begins by exploring Calistoga which is the final stop for those making their way through the Napa Valley and it is the best spot to fully unwind before heading back to reality. The mineral-rich water has led to the town to become a wellness destination with a number of spas and natural spring pools. Visitors can relax and can shop at their favorites in the line of Lincoln Avenue.
Best Hotels in Napa Valley
Auberge du Soleil
For a luxurious stay, you can reserve rooms at Auberge du Soleil. This accommodation has 27 rooms, 19 one-bedroom suites along with the two private Maisons, and an outdoor pool. You can also opt for in-room massage treatments according to your preference.
Address: 180 Rutherford Hill Rd, Rutherford, CA 94573
Phone: (707) 963-1211
The George
The George is situated in the heart of the downtown that is been restored and updated recently. With its beautiful location, it offers nine totally original guest rooms which blend modern amenities with the building old-charm. You can plan your stay by reserving the rooms at least one month before visiting this downtown.
Address: 492 Randolph St, Napa, CA 94559
Phone: (707) 596-5168
Hotel Villagio at The Estate Yountville
If you want a relaxing getaway then this estate offers everything that you require for your perfect getaway. At the center, you will find Hotel Villagio which has 112 guestrooms that has 22 suites along with the sporting gas fireplaces that are made for a relaxing escape.
Address: 6481 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599
Phone: (707) 927-2130
Archer Hotel Napa
Address: 1230 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
Phone: (707) 690-9800
The Archer Hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Napa surrounded by restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms. The boutique hotel’s First Street location puts it right in the center of the action. For unbeatable views, head to the hotel’s Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, which happens to be the only open-air bar in town.
Top Shopping Places in Napa Valley
Oxbow Public Market
Oxbow Public Market is one of the famous streets in downtown Napa which is a 40,000 square foot marketplace that has food vendors, cafes, and produces from local farmers. You can grab a cup of coffee after a long afternoon on the outdoor patio overlooking the Napa River.
Address: 610 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
Phone: (707) 226-6529
Spice Islands Marketplace
Head towards the Spice Islands Marketplace which is a haven for any foodie. Over 1700 cookbook titles, bakeware are available out there. You should be sure to leave plenty of extra room in your bag. The next thing you will find is the extra room in your bag where you will learn more about the process of chocolate making.
Address: 2555 Main Street, St. Helena CA 94574
Phone: 845-452-9600
First Street Napa
First Street Napa is the collection of restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms which is centered right in the heart of downtown Napa making it a perfect location to spend a day. You will find more than 40 businesses on First Street Napa which is all within walking distance.
Address: 1300 First Street, Napa, CA 94559
Phone: (707) 257-6900
Wrapping Up
Escape to the popular wine country Napa Valley and enjoy the varieties at multiple wineries in Napa and Sonoma which includes both big-name and family-run estates. Learning from the Winemaking process to the guided tours of vineyards there are a lot of things that you cannot miss to discover in the Napa Valley. You can also find various cheap flights to Napa valley during the off-season in the city. Moreover, with the Napa Valley guide, you will get to know more about various wine regions, attractions, and restaurants.
Start your adventures in the winery country of Napa Valley!
