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Dreaming of a scenic California escape? Napa is calling your name!
We’ve explored this stunning region every way we could think of, from floating above the valley in a hot air balloon to cruising through sun-drenched vineyards on a vintage trolley. So we figured it was time to share our favorite experiences in one handy guide, because these adventures are just too good to keep to ourselves.
With its laid-back charm and unforgettable landscapes, Napa delivers far more than just a pretty view. From luxe limo rides to fun e-bike experiences, we’ve rounded up the seven best things to do in Napa to help you plan the perfect escape. Cheers!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Napa is this small-group Napa Valley tour. It’s a relaxed, scenic day with stops at three cozy tasting locations, a picnic lunch, easy transport, and a guide who brings the area to life with great local stories.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Napa
- 1. Take in panoramic views of vine-covered hills from a hot air balloon
- 2. Taste your way through Napa Valley on a relaxed small-group wine tour
- 3. Ride a vintage trolley through Napa and sip wines at top local wineries
- 4. Pedal through vineyards and enjoy tastings on a guided e-bike tour
- 5. Indulge in a full-day private wine tour with concierge planning
- 6. Cruise through wine country in a limo with tastings, views, and VIP vibes
- Where to Stay in Napa, California
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Napa
1. Take in panoramic views of vine-covered hills from a hot air balloon
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Time: 5:10 am–6:50 am (depending on the time of sunrise)
- Highlights: Sunrise hot air balloon flight, aerial views of the rolling vineyards, learning about the art of ballooning, light pre-flight breakfast
- Inclusions: Hot air balloon flight, knowledgeable pilot, pre-flight tea or coffee, post-flight drink, pastries, and muffins
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Normally, getting up before dawn isn’t my idea of a good time, but this sunrise hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley was totally worth it! We got to watch the vineyards slowly light up beneath us as we drifted higher and higher, which was pure magic.
The meeting point for this tour is in Yountville, which is about a 20-minute drive from Napa. I’ll be honest, I was still half-asleep when we arrived, but I quickly woke up thanks to the pre-flight coffee and pastries. Then, our pilot, Jimmy, let us help with the setup, which was actually a lot of fun!
And once we were in the air, it was just… wow! Our jaws were practically on the floor as we admired Napa’s rolling hills and endless vineyards. It really looked like a postcard come to life. The whole thing felt so peaceful and surreal.
And when we finally touched down, the landing was so smooth that I almost didn’t realize we’d hit the ground!
This hot air balloon ride is something that you’ll remember long after you leave Napa, and as cheesy as it sounds, it’s worth every penny. I mean, there’s a reason that it has over 500 glowing reviews! However, its popularity means that it pretty much always sells out, so don’t hesitate to grab your spot now.
Book this bucket list hot air balloon flight here!
2. Taste your way through Napa Valley on a relaxed small-group wine tour
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Visiting three distinct local wineries, learning about Napa’s winemaking heritage, small group tour
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, driver and guide, picnic lunch, bottled water
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a relaxed way to explore Napa Valley without the hefty price tag of a private driver, this small group wine tour is an absolute gem! Tastings were at our own expense, which I actually loved because it meant we got to choose exactly what we wanted to try at each place and tailor the day to our own tastes.
And in terms of logistics, this tour couldn’t have made things any easier for us. We didn’t need to spend time researching and choosing which locations we wanted to visit. Instead, we just showed up and got to experience three of the best vineyards that Napa has to offer. They were all so different from one another, so we got a well-rounded taste of the region.
We also enjoyed a lovely picnic lunch, with gorgeous views of rolling vineyards. It was nice and casual, but totally delicious!
I also loved the fact that this was a small group tour, as it felt much more personal than a big bus experience. It gave us the chance to get to know our fellow tour mates!
This tour offers the perfect blend of structure and flexibility. And there are plenty of five-star reviews here that attest to this, so you don’t just have to take our word for it!
Book this top-rated Napa Valley wine tour here and enjoy FREE cancellation!
3. Ride a vintage trolley through Napa and sip wines at top local wineries
- Duration: 6.5 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Historic trolley ride, stopping at three to four wineries, sampling local wines (own expense), informative commentary on board
- Inclusions: Pickup from Oxbow Public Market, trolley tickets, expert sommelier guide, lunch, reservations at each location
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 550+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a tour in Napa with some serious novelty factor, then I suggest you climb aboard the wine trolley, STAT! We had the best time riding around in a replica of one of San Francisco’s iconic cable cars, enjoying the gorgeous views and visiting four wineries!
Our guide, Richard, was awesome, and the vibe on the trolley was friendly and upbeat. Everyone was ready to chat, sip, and enjoy the day together!
We visited four locations and loved discovering the unique charm of each one. We got to hang out at a small family-run spot, pose at chic tasting rooms, and relax with sweeping vineyard views. And yes, it was just as blissful as it sounds!
Tastings weren’t included in the ticket price, but this meant that we got to pick and choose what we wanted to sample, which was perfect. We did get lunch at one of the stops, though. It was so nice to sit down, enjoy some good food, and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.
This trolley tour is such a fun and easy way to go wine tasting without worrying about driving, directions, or making reservations. It’s all handled for you! If you’re after something a little quirky but still classic Napa, this trolley adventure is a total win.
Check availability and book your wine trolley tickets here!
4. Pedal through vineyards and enjoy tastings on a guided e-bike tour
- Duration: 5.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Cycling around the Napa Valley, beautiful vineyard views, small group tour, visiting two wineries, learning about wine-making philosophies and practices, picnic lunch from a local bakery
- Inclusions: Electric bike and helmet, tour guide, winery reservations, lunch, pickup service for wine purchases, handlebar bag for personal belongings, bottled water
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 90+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a fun and active way to experience the Napa Valley, this e-bike tour is it! We had so much fun riding around, and the electric assistance meant that we didn’t even break a sweat.
The route for this tour covers 3-6 miles (5-10 kilometers), depending on the day. All of the winery reservations are made for you, and if you decide to buy a few bottles along the way, a shuttle will come and pick it right up for you.
Riding through the Valley itself is such a treat. Some of the cycling was on bike lanes next to traffic lanes, but for the most part, we only had a few cars go past us. The Napa Valley is so lovely and serene!
Our guide, John, was absolutely fantastic and stopped at key points to share little-known stories about the area’s history with us. He also suggested lots of great photo stops and took us to two amazing wineries. One was a charming family-run spot with a garden patio, and the other had a more modern tasting room with sweeping vineyard views.
Meanwhile, lunch was a delicious picnic from a beloved local bakery. We were in a super small group of just six people, which was amazing. We really bonded as we shared our wine-fuelled adventure!
So if you’re up for a little pedal power and a lot of wine, this tour is an awesome way to experience Napa Valley from a whole new perspective.
Book this awesome e-bike Valley tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Indulge in a full-day private wine tour with concierge planning
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: Flexible departure time between 9 am–12 pm
- Highlights: Concierge service to plan your perfect day, visiting Napa and Sonoma wine countries, private tour
- Inclusions: Private transport, concierge service, private driver and guide, pickup and drop-off, pre-travel consultation to plan your perfect day
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 130+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re serious about wine, this private wine tour is the way to go. It includes a concierge service, and it made us feel totally taken care of.
Our personal wine concierge reached out to us well in advance to speak to us about our wine preferences and craft our perfect itinerary. And as we found out, it really does pay to have a personal wine expert in your corner!
On the day itself, our driver, Dean, was the perfect blend of professional and personable. He navigated the winding roads of Napa and Sonoma with ease while sharing insider stories about the wineries we visited. He also gave us some fantastic recommendations on which wines to try!
Not having to worry about driving meant we could fully relax and savor each glass without a care in the world. And the concierge service took the guesswork out of the day. We just showed up, and everything was ready to go.
This is a seamless, first-class experience that makes you feel like a true VIP in wine country. If you’re a wine lover looking to elevate your Napa or Sonoma visit, this is hands down the best way to do it.
Read all of the glowing reviews and book this VIP wine tour here!
6. Cruise through wine country in a limo with tastings, views, and VIP vibes
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: Flexible departure time between 9 am–12 pm
- Highlights: Cruising around in a limo, visiting boutique wineries and gourmet restaurants, personalized itinerary tailored to your tastes and interests
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, private limousine transport, private chauffeur
- Rating: 5 stars (check 120+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re looking to celebrate in serious style, this private limo tour through Napa is the ultimate way to go! We booked this for a birthday, and we got the VIP experience from start to finish. We’re generally pretty unpretentious travelers, but there’s just something about rolling up to a winery in a sleek, black limo that really just makes you feel like a baller.
Before the tour, we spoke to our friendly chauffeur, Peter. He knew all the best spots to visit and helped us to customize our itinerary so that we were able to hit a mix of iconic wineries and hidden gems. He also took care of all of the timing and logistics, so all we had to do was relax and enjoy rolling from vineyard to vineyard in a luxe limo!
Speaking of which, inside the car, it was all plush leather seats and chilled champagne. We turned the music up and basically lived out our movie star dreams. If you want to feel like a total rockstar while you explore the wine country, then this tour is hands down the best way to go. And don’t just take our word for it—read over a hundred rave reviews here!
Book this private luxury wine tour here with free 24-hour cancellation!
Where to Stay in Napa, California
Now that you know how to explore the Napa Valley in style, you just need a great place to stay! We like downtown Napa as it’s a super convenient spot for tour pickups, and there’s plenty to see and do here. Yountville is also a good choice as it’s convenient, scenic, and well-known for its amazing restaurants!
From luxury resorts to charming inns, Napa offers something for every budget and style. From sleek, modern stays to rustic vineyard retreats, these are our top three picks—just be sure to book soon if they’re still available, as spots this good don’t last long!
Luxury – $$$
For a luxurious retreat in the heart of wine country, Hotel Yountville is a standout choice. It’s an incredibly elegant property that exudes exactly the kind of rustic charm you’d expect to find in the gorgeous Napa Valley. Rooms feature plush king beds, fireplaces, and private patios, and some even come with spa baths for the ultimate relaxation!
I think the only downside of staying here is that you’ll never want to leave! And as if all of that weren’t enough, you can unwind by the outdoor pool, indulge in treatments at the sumptuous spa, or sip complimentary wine at The Bar on select evenings. Yes, that’s right – free wine! You also get bike rentals included with your stay, so it’s easy to get out and explore.
King rooms here cost between $650 and $1,200 USD per night. Check availability and secure your stay here!
Mid-range – $$
For a stylish, laid-back stay in the heart of Napa, R Inn Napa is our top choice! This boutique property offers a blend of modern comfort and historic charm, with beautiful rooms and luxe bathrooms with walk-in showers. When you’re not out wine tasting, you can unwind in the beautifully landscaped garden or kick back in the stylish shared lounge.
The inn’s location is unbeatable. It’s just a 6-minute stroll from the Napa Valley Opera House and a quick 13-minute walk to the Oxbow Market, where the aforementioned Wine Trolley starts! Plus, with free on-site parking and easy access to downtown Napa’s best restaurants and tasting rooms, it’s a perfect base for exploring wine country.
Queen rooms here usually cost between $375 and $525 USD per night. Reserve your stay at R Inn Napa on Booking.com!
Budget – $
RiverPointe Napa Valley Resort offers great value in the heart of Napa! It’s a laid-back resort that offers spacious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, patios, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can unwind by the outdoor heated pool, squeeze in a workout at the gym, or grill up dinner at the BBQ facilities. What more could you need?
Despite being a bargain by Napa’s usual standards, this hotel is ideally positioned for exploring the area. The studios and cottages here are also super comfortable and airy. If you’re looking for a serene stay that won’t break the bank, this is it!
Stays here start from $215 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!
For more options, check out all of Napa’s listed hotels here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Napa is everything we hoped for—lush, scenic, and full of unforgettable ways to experience the rolling countryside. From hot air balloon rides to cozy tastings at boutique vineyards, we hope this guide helped you plan the kind of trip you’ll be talking about for years. Whether you’re coming for a weekend escape or a longer getaway, Napa makes it easy to unwind in style.
Planning more adventures in the states? Check out all our USA blogs here—we’ve got plenty of firsthand tips to help you plan something amazing! Or check out a few of our most-read blog below for even more great travel tips.
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