California’s Napa Valley is celebrated not only for its world-class wineries but also for its exceptional culinary experiences, stunning landscapes, and vibrant arts scene. Just a short drive from San Francisco and neighboring Sonoma, Napa Valley is perfectly situated for a memorable day trip. While a half-day visit can be enjoyable, dedicating a full day allows you to fully immerse yourself in everything the valley has to offer, from savoring fine wines to indulging in gourmet dining and exploring local art.
When exploring Napa Valley’s renowned wineries with Metropolitan Shuttle, there’s no need to stress about designating a driver. Your group can relax and fully indulge in the wine country experience without worrying about transportation. Professional drivers ensure you get to each destination safely, allowing everyone in your group to enjoy wine tastings to the fullest.
Whether you’re sampling elegant reds or crisp whites, hiring Metropolitan Shuttle means you can focus on savoring the day’s experiences while we handle the logistics. This way, you and your friends can relish every moment of your Napa adventure with peace of mind.
This guide provides a thoughtfully-planned itinerary to help you make the most of your visit, ensuring you experience the best of Napa Valley without spending too much time on the road. Whether you’re planning a wine tour, a culinary adventure, or a scenic stroll, this itinerary is designed to help you enjoy a rich and varied day in one of California’s premier destinations.
Kickstart Your Day with a Delicious Breakfast
Kick off your Napa Valley adventure with a satisfying breakfast at Boon Fly Café, situated at 4048 Sonoma Highway in the Carneros Resort and Spa. This charming spot offers a delightful chicken and waffles dish that’s both tasty and fulfilling, making it the perfect way to begin your day of exploration. A substantial breakfast is crucial before embarking on a wine tour, as it helps absorb alcohol more effectively, allowing you to enjoy wine tastings without feeling too tipsy too quickly. Conveniently located as you enter Napa, this café sets the stage for a wonderful day ahead. For an added treat, don’t miss the chance to grab a dozen of their famous donuts. These delicious treats are perfect for snacking later as you continue your journey through the valley.
Create Your Own Wine Blend at Hess Collection Winery
Head to the Hess Collection Winery, perched atop Mount Veeder at 4441 Redwood Road. Here, you can immerse yourself in the art of winemaking by blending three varietals to craft a personalized wine that you can take home. Alternatively, explore the Hess Contemporary Art Museum, which houses one of the most impressive private art collections globally, and enjoy a tasting of their latest releases.
Lunch at Oxbow Public Market
Oxbow Public Market, located at 610 1st Street, is a bustling venue favored by both locals and visitors. This gourmet market offers a variety of food vendors, where you can sample everything from oysters and burgers to tacos. This lively marketplace is one of the most popular spots in Downtown Napa! It’s full of fresh produce, a few farm-to-table restaurants, and a full on cheese shop. Enjoy your meal on the spacious deck overlooking the Napa River or gather supplies to create a picnic to savor along the riverfront.
Explore Downtown Napa
Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Napa along First Street, where the vibrant atmosphere is complemented by a diverse array of tasting rooms, distinctive shops, and art galleries. This bustling area offers a delightful blend of local flavors and artistic expressions, making it a great spot for a relaxed exploration.
Stop by the Napa Valley Welcome Center at 1300 1st Street to pick up a map of the Napa Valley Art Walk. This public outdoor exhibition features a collection of striking sculptures scattered throughout the area, adding an artistic touch to your downtown experience. Enjoy the blend of culture and commerce as you wander through this charming part of Napa.
Visit Renowned Wineries
While it’s challenging to visit every winery in a single day, a few standouts include:
- Stags’ Leap Winery: Located at 6150 Silverado Trail, this historic estate features beautiful gardens and offers a 90-minute Manor House Tour & Tasting.
- Silverado Vineyards: At 6121 Silverado Trail, you can enjoy a White Wine & Caviar experience or indulge in their Legacy Cabernet offerings.
- Black Cat Vineyard: A hidden gem, located at 1352 4th Ave, renowned for its boutique wines and intimate tasting experiences. Nestled in the heart of the valley, this family-owned vineyard offers a charming escape from the more commercial wineries. Known for its carefully crafted wines, Black Cat Vineyard specializes in small-batch production, ensuring each bottle reflects the unique characteristics of the estate’s terroir.
Experience Tasting Rooms in Town
- Wine Girl Napa Valley offers a chic and trendy setting with plush, cushy seating, making it an ideal destination for bachelorette parties and girls’ weekends. Its Instagrammable interiors and fun atmosphere ensure a memorable visit for those looking to enjoy a stylish and social wine experience.
- Be Bubbly is a stylish champagne and sparkling wine lounge, known for its high-end small plates that perfectly complement its sparkling selections. Indulge in delicacies like caviar, foie gras, French country pâté, and grilled cheesy toast bites. Don’t miss their prosciutto cheese plate featuring Cowgirl Creamery’s renowned Mt. Tam cheese.
- JaM Cellars stands out in Downtown Napa for its vibrant atmosphere and notable wine offerings. One of the most popular tasting rooms in the area, JaM Cellars also doubles as a music studio, hosting weekly JamSessions on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. It’s a lively spot where wine and music come together.
Dine in Style
If you’re in the mood for an extraordinary meal, Napa Valley has several remarkable dining options:
- Angèle Restaurant & Bar: Located at 540 Main Street, this bistro offers a French dining experience by the river.
- Morimoto Napa: At 610 Main Street, enjoy Japanese cuisine with a range of sushi, sake, and more.
- The Grove at the CIA: Situated at 500 1st Street, this restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes with ingredients from their own gardens.
For something unique, consider the Napa Valley Wine Train at 1275 Mckinstry Street, which offers a classic wine tour and multi-course dinners. Alternatively, experience the Winemaker Cruise from Napa Yacht Club at 100 Riverside Road, where you can enjoy a four-course dinner on a private yacht.
Book Your Private Transportation with Metropolitan Shuttle
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable day trip to Napa Valley, consider booking private transportation with Metropolitan Shuttle. We offer a variety of vehicles, including charter buses, minibuses, and school buses, catering to groups of all sizes. With Metropolitan Shuttle, you can relax and focus on the day’s activities while leaving the driving and parking to the professionals. Our reliable services, and comfortable vehicles, make traveling between San Francisco and Napa Valley effortless, allowing you to maximize your time exploring and enjoying the region’s best offerings.By following this guide and opting for Metropolitan Shuttle’s convenient transportation, your group will be all set for an unforgettable day in Napa Valley, filled with exquisite wine, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. Call us today at 866-556-3545 to book your Napa Valley day trip!
