Best Napa Valley Itinerary 3 Days – Long Weekend In California

A Napa Valley trip sounds delightful! Planning a three-day itinerary immerses you in the region’s diverse wine culture, stunning landscapes, and luxurious experiences, ensuring a memorable and enriching getaway. Here’s a detailed Napa Valley itinerary.

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Let’s check three various options of the Napa Valley itinerary 3 days tour with distinct options and unique features in each of them

Itinerary For Napa Valley Trip – Option One

In this Napa Valley itinerary, you will start your trip from Napa Downtown by staying there and exploring the nearby area, which has many wine tastings and hot air balloon tours on all three days.

Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Napa Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Napa Valley and check into Andaz Napa Hotel. It’s centrally located and offers a luxurious experience with easy access to downtown attractions. Stroll through vibrant and colorful Napa Downtown.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Visit Oxbow Public Market for diverse dining options. Try the tacos from C CASA. 
• Wine Tasting: Start your wine exploration with a visit to the Vintner’s Collective. This tasting room offers a curated selection of wines from small boutique wineries.
• Shopping: Explore the boutiques and galleries along Main Street for unique souvenirs and local art.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at The Restaurant at CIA Copia. It offers a rotating menu featuring seasonal ingredients from the Napa Valley region.
• Nightlife: End your evening with drinks at Cadet Wine & Beer Bar, known for its extensive wine and craft beer selection.

Tips:

• Book in Advance: Make reservations for popular restaurants and wine tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Designated Driver: If you plan to indulge in wine tasting, consider hiring a driver or joining a guided tour to ensure safety.

Day 2: Vineyard Tours and Culinary Experiences

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Model Bakery in St. Helena. Their famous English muffins are a must-try.
• Winery Tour: Book a guided tour at Beringer Vineyards. Established in 1876, it is one of the oldest wineries in Napa Valley and is known for its historic Rhine House and premium wines.

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pick up gourmet provisions from Dean & DeLuca and enjoy a picnic at V. Sattui Winery. Their expansive picnic grounds offer stunning views of the vineyards.
• Winery Exploration: Visit Robert Mondavi Winery for a guided tour and tasting. Learn about the winemaking process and sample their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon.

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Evening:

• Dinner: Dine at The French Laundry in Yountville for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a tasting menu showcasing the best of Napa Valley‘s seasonal ingredients.
• Stargazing: Head to Robert Louis Stevenson State Park for stargazing after dinner. It offers a clear view of the night sky from city lights.

Tips:

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water between wine tastings to stay hydrated and avoid fatigue.
• Comfortable Attire: Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing, as vineyard tours may involve walking and temperature fluctuations.

Day 3: Hot Air Balloon Ride and Relaxation

Morning:

• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the beauty of Napa Valley from above with a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Companies like Balloons Above the Valley offer scenic flights over the vineyards.
• Champagne Breakfast: Enjoy a champagne breakfast at the launch site after your flight. It’s a perfect way to celebrate your adventure.

Afternoon:

• Spa Day: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at Solage, an Auberge Resort in Calistoga. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments like mud baths and massages amidst picturesque surroundings.

Evening:

• Farewell Dinner: Conclude your Napa Valley trip with a farewell dinner at Bottega Napa Valley. Chef Michael Chiarello’s Italian-inspired cuisine highlights local ingredients and flavors.

Tips:

• Weather Consideration: Hot air balloon rides are weather-dependent, so be prepared for potential rescheduling.
• Relaxation Time: Pay attention to your itinerary; leave some time for relaxation and spontaneous exploration.

With this itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Napa Valley, from world-class wines to stunning scenery and gourmet dining. Enjoy your trip!

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Option 2 – Napa Valley Itinerary 3 Days

Here’s a detailed 3-day Napa Valley itinerary, each night spent in a different region.

Day 1: Napa

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at the Napa General Store, known for its delicious breakfast options and cozy ambiance.
• Take a guided tour of the renowned Robert Mondavi Winery. Learn about the history of winemaking in Napa Valley and enjoy tasting their exceptional wines.
• Have lunch at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch, a farm-to-table restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Napa Art Walk, a rotating exhibit of sculptures from local artists displayed along the downtown streets. 
• Enjoy dinner at The Charter Oak, known for its wood-fired cuisine and extensive wine list featuring local favorites.

Evening: Check into your hotel, The Westin Verasa Napa. Unwind, relax at their spa, or stroll along the Napa River Walk.

Day 2: Yountville

 

Morning:

• Have breakfast at Bouchon Bakery, which is famous for its pastries and coffee.
• Embark on a hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley Aloft. Experience breathtaking views of the valley and vineyards from above.

Afternoon:

• Visit The French Laundry Gardens, where many of the ingredients for the famous restaurant are grown. Take a guided tour of the gardens and learn about sustainable farming practices.
• Wine tasting at Domaine Chandon. Explore their beautiful vineyard, learn about sparkling wine production, and enjoy tastings of their renowned bubbly.

Evening:

• You can dine at Bistro Jeanty, a cozy French restaurant known for its traditional cuisine and extensive wine selection.
• Stay at the Bardessono Hotel & Spa. This luxurious LEED Platinum-certified hotel offers eco-friendly accommodations and a serene spa experience.

Day 3: Calistoga

Morning:

• Enjoy breakfast at Solbar at Solage, known for its fresh, seasonal dishes and relaxed atm. 
• Take a mud bath at the historic Indian Springs Resort & Spa. Experience the therapeutic benefits of the local mineral-rich mud and thermal waters. 

Afternoon:

• Explore the Castello di Amorosa, a medieval-inspired Tuscan castle winery. Take a guided tour of the castle and its underground wine caves, and taste their award-winning wines.
• Visit Old Faithful Geyser of California, one of only three geysers designated “old faithful.” Experience the geyser’s regular eruptions and explore the surrounding gardens.

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Evening:

• Dinner at Solbar at Solage. Indulge in their innovative, seasonal cuisine paired with local wines.
• Spend your final night at the Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort in a secluded canyon. This luxurious resort offers private lodges, a serene spa, and breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.

Option 3 – Napa Valley Itinerary 3 days

Let’s craft a distinct itinerary for your first-time Napa Valley adventure.

Day 1: St. Helena

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Model Bakery in St. Helena. Their famous English muffins are a must-try.
• Begin your wine journey with a tour and tasting at the iconic Beringer Vineyards. Explore their historic estate and underground caves while sampling their exquisite wines.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at the Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch. Their farm-to-table menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients from their ranch.
• Visit the Hess Collection Winery & Art Museum. Explore their impressive collection of contemporary art and enjoy wine tasting in a unique setting.

Evening:

• Dine at The Restaurant at Meadowood for a luxurious culinary experience. Their three-Michelin-starred cuisine showcases the best of Napa Valley’s flavors.
• Check into Meadowood Napa Valley for the night. This elegant resort offers luxurious accommodations, a world-class spa, and picturesque surroundings.

Day 2: Napa

Morning:

• Have breakfast at Alexis Baking Company in downtown Napa. Their diverse menu has something for everyone.
• Take a hot-air balloon ride for breathtaking valley views at sunrise.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Oxbow Public Market for lunch. Sample gourmet foods from local vendors and pick up some artisanal souvenirs.
• Take a tasting tour at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia. Learn about food and wine pairing techniques while enjoying tastings at Napa Valley’s top wineries.

Evening:

• Dinner at La Toque, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative French cuisine and extensive wine list.
• Spend the night at The Meritage Resort & Spa. This Tuscan-inspired resort offers luxurious accommodations, an underground spa, and breathtaking vineyard views.

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Day 3: Calistoga

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at Sam’s Social Club in Calistoga. Their outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying the morning sunshine.
• Indulge in a mud bath and mineral soak at the Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa. Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters of Calistoga. 

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch at Sterling Vineyards. Take a scenic tram ride to the hilltop winery and savor panoramic views of the valley while enjoying your meal.
• Explore the Old Faithful Geyser of California. Witness nature’s spectacle as the geyser erupts and explore the surrounding gardens.

Evening:

• Dine at Solbar at Solage, known for its contemporary California cuisine and extensive wine selection.
• Stay overnight at Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort. Experience luxury in the heart of nature with private lodges, outdoor showers, and personalized service.

Useful Tips – First time to Napa Valley itinerary 3 days

• Plan Ahead: Make reservations for tours, activities, and restaurants in advance, especially during weekends and peak seasons.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during wine tastings and outdoor activities.
• Explore Beyond Wine: Napa Valley offers a variety of activities beyond wine tasting, such as hot air balloon rides, spa treatments, and outdoor adventures.
• Take Your Time: Don’t rush through experiences. Take time to savor each moment and immerse yourself in the beauty of Napa Valley.
• Designated Driver or Transportation: Consider hiring a driver or booking a tour with transportation to ensure everyone can enjoy the wine tastings safely.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and layers, as the weather can vary throughout the day.
• Enjoy the Scenery: Enjoy the stunning landscapes and vineyard views throughout your trip.

FAQs – Napa Valley Itinerary 3 Days

• What is the best time of year to visit Napa Valley?

Napa Valley is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the vineyards are lush.

• How should I plan my transportation around Napa Valley?

Consider renting a car for flexibility, or opt for guided tours that provide transportation. Some hotels offer shuttle services, and rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are available.

• Are reservations required for wine tastings and tours?

Yes, making reservations in advance, especially for popular wineries and restaurants, is highly recommended to ensure availability and a seamless experience.

• What activities can I enjoy besides wine tasting?

Napa Valley offers a range of activities, including hot air balloon rides, hiking, cycling tours, spa treatments, culinary classes, and art galleries.

• Are there non-alcoholic activities suitable for families?

Absolutely! Families can enjoy activities such as visiting petting zoos, exploring parks and gardens, taking scenic drives, and indulging in delicious meals at family-friendly restaurants.

• How can I ensure a safe and enjoyable wine-tasting experience?

Designate a driver, use transportation services, or book guided tours with transportation included. Drinking responsibly and staying hydrated by alternating water between tastings is essential.

• What should I pack for my trip to Napa Valley?

Pack comfortable clothing and shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a reusable water bottle, a camera, and a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures vary throughout the day.

• Can I bring children or pets to wineries?

While some wineries may allow children or pets on their premises, it is best to check their policies in advance. Many wineries offer designated areas or activities for families and pet-friendly accommodations.

• Are there any special events or festivals happening during my visit?

Check the Napa Valley event calendar for wine festivals, food and wine pairings, live music events, art exhibitions, and other cultural happenings during your stay.

Now you know how to plan a Napa Valley itinerary 3 days with three flexible itineraries. Enjoy your visit to Napa Valley!

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