A Weekend in Napa Valley: The Best Vineyards and Restaurants
When you think of Napa Valley, images of rolling vineyards, world-class wine, and farm-to-table cuisine probably come to mind—and for good reason. With over 400 wineries and 90 tasting rooms, this slice of wine country offers endless ways to sip, savor, and explore.
Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, Napa is more than a wine-lover’s paradise. Its picturesque landscapes, perfect weather, and award-winning restaurants make it an ideal weekend escape year-round.
Recently, my family and I spent three days soaking up everything Napa has to offer before heading back to the city. It was just the right amount of time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed. Armed with a little research (and a lot of excitement), we rented a car to give ourselves the freedom to stop spontaneously for photos or midday snacks. (Friendly reminder: if you're indulging in wine, always plan a designated driver or use a rideshare service!)
Here’s how we made the most of our time in Napa—plus tips to plan your own weekend getaway.
Our Weekend Game Plan
To keep things relaxed yet fulfilling, we planned two winery visits each day. This left room for slow, easy mornings, leisurely breakfasts, and time to freshen up before enjoying evenings out. Trust me: the pace made all the difference.
Here are the wineries that stole the show:
Frank Family Vineyard – Classic Napa charm with bold reds and welcoming vibes.
Cuvaison Winery – Known for its stunning views and sustainable practices.
Domaine Carneros – A sparkling wine haven with a touch of elegance.
The Prisoner Wine Company – Trendy and vibrant, perfect for the unconventional wine enthusiast.
Kerr Cellars – Boutique vibes with exceptional tastings that make you feel like a VIP.
Food & Drink Highlights
No trip to Napa is complete without indulging in its culinary scene. Here are our top picks:
Scala Osteria (Downtown Napa) – Elevated Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
Model Bakery (Multiple Locations) – Don’t skip their legendary English muffins!
Oakville Grocery (Oakville) – Perfect for picnic supplies or a quick, gourmet lunch.
Mustards Grill (St. Helena) – Quite possibly the best meal I’ve ever had. Yes, it’s that good.
Pizzeria Tra Vigne (St. Helena) – Laid-back with wood-fired pizzas.
Where We Stayed
We chose the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa, located just three miles (about an 8-minute drive) from downtown Napa. It turned out to be the perfect base: close to the action yet quiet enough to unwind. Bonus points for the nearby walking and biking trails!
Other Must-Try Activities
While wine is the star of the show, Napa offers so much more:
Go for a scenic hike to soak up the valley views.
Take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride for a bucket-list-worthy experience.
Saddle up for a horseback ride through the vineyards.
Venture over to nearby Sonoma for even more wine and charm.
A weekend in Napa Valley is a blend of indulgence and relaxation. My biggest takeaway? Keep your itinerary flexible. Whether it’s stumbling upon a hidden gem or lingering at a winery longer than planned, Napa shines when you let it unfold naturally.
