Private Wine Tour of Napa and Sonoma — Luxury Day Trip from San Francisco
Cross the Golden Gate, drive into sunlit rows of vines, and spend a private day tasting at a family estate and a boutique winery. This guided Napa and Sonoma tour blends history, winemaking insight, and a leisurely lunch in Sonoma Square.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Mornings by the bay can be cool and inland afternoons warm—bring a light jacket you can shed between tastings.
Pace your tastings
Sip, ask questions, and spit if you’re tasting many wines—save room for the lunches and purchases you’ll want to bring home.
Bring government ID
Tastings require ID and many wineries enforce age limits strictly—don’t risk being turned away.
Arrange shipping for purchases
Most wineries will ship purchases; plan ahead if you’re buying multiple cases so the driver’s trunk doesn’t become long-term storage.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Treasure Island viewpoint on the return for a different bridge-and-city perspective
- •Small, owner-run Carneros producers for intimate cellar visits and hands-on conversation
Wildlife
- •Black-tailed deer in early morning vineyard edges
- •Red-tailed hawks and kestrels hunting above rows
Conservation Note
Many vineyards in Napa and Sonoma now use drip irrigation, cover crops, and sustainable certifications—choose wineries that prioritize water stewardship and minimal pesticide use to reduce your visit’s impact.
Sonoma Plaza was the site of the 1846 Bear Flag revolt and sits near Mission San Francisco Solano—the last of California’s Spanish missions, reflecting the region’s layered colonial and agricultural past.
Photographer's Notes
- • Golden Gate Vista Point (outbound photo stop)
- • Hilltop tasting room terraces with vineyard panoramas
- • Sonoma Plaza stone facades and mission grounds
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Vineyards and tasting rooms can have gravel or uneven paths—sturdy flats or trainers work best.
Layered clothing (light jacket)Essential
Coastal mornings and inland afternoons vary—layers keep you comfortable all day.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated between tastings helps you taste more accurately and feel better by evening.
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Golden Gate viewpoints and hilltop tasting rooms offer excellent photo opportunities—extra power lets you shoot the whole day.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The private tour lasts about 8–10 hours, including pickup and return to San Francisco and time for two included tastings plus lunch.
How many wineries will we visit?
Two tastings at included wineries are standard; you can add a third stop for an extra fee or out-of-pocket tasting cost.
Is lunch included?
No—lunch at one of Sonoma’s restaurants is arranged during the itinerary and is not included in the tour price.
Do you provide pickup and drop-off?
Yes—the tour offers pickup from many San Francisco hotels and select locations; the operator confirms exact pickup details the evening before.
Are tastings suitable for children?
Tastings themselves require guests to be of legal drinking age; children can ride in strollers or seats but cannot participate in tastings.
Can we ship wine home?
Yes—most wineries offer shipping and can help coordinate shipments; the tour operator can also advise on logistics.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–10 hours
Location
Sonoma, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect light walking and standing during tastings and a few short steps at estate properties.
Ready to Explore Sonoma?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now