Are you planning your first visit to Napa or returning for another unforgettable trip? Napa Valley is the perfect destination for a girls' getaway, a romantic weekend, or simply a chance to relax and soak in breathtaking views.

People often ask when the best time to visit Napa is and the answer is anytime! In the summer it is busy and warm with lots of events, while the winter is quieter and often more affordable overall. Spring has less crowds and milder weather and fall is harvest season. No matter when you go, Napa is always a great choice!

Let’s start with some of our favorite places to stay! Napa offers a fantastic selection of hotels, each with its own unique charm. The Archer Hotel is a top pick, featuring a stunning rooftop bar with incredible views. The Westin Verasa is conveniently located within walking distance of downtown, while the River Terrace Inn, right next door, is a great budget-friendly option. For those seeking luxury, Silverado Resort offers a beautiful setting on a golf course, and Carneros Resort and Spa provides a boutique experience with private cottages and farm-to-table dining. With so many options, there’s something for everyone.

Looking for things to do in Napa that don’t include a winery. There are many beautiful spa resorts in Napa. Just a few of those include Silverado Resort, Carneros Resort and Spa or if you want to go a little further out in to Sonoma the Fairmont Mission Inn is another great choice. You can also do some amazing hot air balloon rides and soar over the vineyards for some real breathtaking views. Visiting the Redwoods for a hike is always an exciting option. Another non winery option is exploring downtown Napa. Downtown boasts some cute shops, great restaurants and sometimes even live entertainment.

In my opinion, wineries are the true highlight of Napa. With so many to choose from, it’s hard to pick favorites, and it would take numerous visits to experience them all. Some of the more popular wineries include are Castello di Amorosa is the castle. This place is definitely worth at least one visit. The castle is stunning and and the animals are fun to see. Domaine Carneros is known for its sparkling wines and Sterling Vineyards is known for the breathtaking views on the aerial gondola you ride up the hilltop winery. Del Dotto has three unique locations and is one of the few barrel tasting in their caves, and they finish your visit with pizza and tater tots. B Cellars and Round Pond are some of our personal favorites, we love visiting their gardens and  both have amazing food and wine pairings. How about visiting a winery owned by Francis Ford Coppola and seeing lots of film memorabilia or checking out James Cole and their motorcycles and 1959 Corvette? Want something more laid back and in my opinion the best first wine club everyone should join? Check out Sequoia Grove, the trees on property are amazing and they always make you feel like you are a part of the family.

Napa Valley has an abundance of dining options, but a few truly stand out to us. For a delicious Italian meal, we love Bistro Don Giovanni. If you're after a more casual vibe, Oxbow Public Market is a must-visit, offering a variety of food options that cater to every taste. For French cuisine, Buchón Bistro is the place to be. When we're in the mood for a great steak, we enjoy a night out at Cole’s Chophouse, Cordeiros Steakhouse, or Charlie Palmer’s Steakhouse.

When looking at booking your Napa vacation it is important to plan ahead. Wineries often book out months in advance, especially during peak season. Wine tastings can get pricey and add up quickly, so be sure to pace yourself. I always recommend hiring a private driver if you’re touring wineries for a safer, more enjoyable experience.

By planning your activities ahead of time—whether it’s a hot air balloon ride or a wine train adventure—you can avoid any disappointment and ensure you get to experience everything Napa has to offer.

Remember to check the weather! Mornings can be cold and afternoons especially in the summer can be hot. Dressing in layers is almost always the best choice.

Ready to sip, savor, and soak in the beauty of Napa Valley? Let me help you plan the perfect wine-country getaway!