Curator’s statement
With more than 400 wineries and nearly half as many restaurants, Napa Valley isn’t short on options for food and wine enthusiasts. And if you have only three days to visit, making choices can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—you can maximize wine tasting and dining while minimizing time in transit. This itinerary offers palate-pleasing days at a relaxed pace, with most food and wine stops along Highway 29, which runs north to south through the valley.
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Day 1: St. Helena & Oakville
The sun sets over Nickel and Nickel's farmstead.
Morning
Begin your wine journey at HALL St. Helena, known for its award-winning cabernet sauvignons and art collection. Glass in hand, treat your senses to works by acclaimed artists, contemporary architecture and design, and views of the Mayacamas Mountains.
Lunch
Travel south just under five miles to the charming Oakville Grocery, which was founded in 1881. Its dine-in and to-go menu offers bakery goods, artisan sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, and more. Browse the market’s wine country provisions while your order is prepared.
Afternoon
Head a half mile north to your afternoon tasting at Nickel & Nickel. Known for single-vineyard, single-varietal wines, the winery hosts seated tastings and walking tours on its historic farmstead.
Day 2: Calistoga
The "Welcome to Napa Valley" signs at the southern and northern ends of the valley are photo-worthy stops.
Morning
Start your day inside Rivers-Marie’s glass-enclosed tasting room for an intimate wine experience. The winery specializes in single-vineyard cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir, and chardonnay.
Lunch
If you’re up for it, stroll from Rivers-Marie through downtown Calistoga and its mix of boutiques, galleries, and gift shops. You’ll soon arrive at Sam’s Social Club to refuel on seasonal California fare. Request a table outside if the weather allows.
Afternoon
Travel roughly 10 minutes by car to Schramsberg. (If you have time, stop for a photo at the “Welcome to Napa Valley” sign just before the winery’s entrance.) Take a guided tasting tour through bottle-lined caves, where you’ll learn about the winery’s unique history and the “méthode traditionnelle” used to produce its sparkling wines.
Day 3: Yountville & Napa
A view from Cliff Lede Vineyards
Morning
Your last day in Napa Valley begins on a high note at Cliff Lede Vineyards, a state-of-the-art winery set on 60 acres in the scenic Stags Leap District. During your tasting, learn about the vineyard blocks named for the founder’s favorite rock songs and albums, whether on a walking tour or in the Backstage Lounge, which features rotating art from legendary musicians.
Lunch
Two miles from your morning tasting is the town of Yountville, with a walkable business district that blends luxury with small-town charm. Try sushi or entrees for every appetite at R+D Kitchen, or enjoy a made-in-house sandwich or slice of quiche at Bouchon Bakery.
Afternoon
A 10-minute ride brings you to Clos du Val in Napa. Although it’s the farthest from Highway 29, it’s worth the short trip along the Silverado Trail. Sample Bordeaux-inspired wines in a quiet meadow cabana, in the cellar, or on the sunny Hirondelle House patio.
Need to know
Dinner recommendations
Chances are you’ll find more than one outstanding dinner option near your accommodation. If you’re staying in St. Helena, for example, try the rustic-chic Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch or Cook St. Helena’s cozy dining room.
If Calistoga is your home base, enjoy seasonal cuisine at either Solbar or Lovina. In Yountville, say “oui” to Bistro Jeanty or the French Laundry. And options abound in downtown Napa, including Torc for farm-to-table dishes with global influence and Zuzu for tapas and paella.
Tips for tastings & getting around
Book your wine tastings at least one month in advance, especially if you’re visiting Napa Valley over a weekend or during peak season (late summer through fall). Many wineries host different types of tastings—from cave and vineyard tours to seated tastings with food pairings—offering you a variety of experiences.
While rideshares are available in Napa Valley, I recommend a private car service or designated driver to avoid worrying about ride availability or wait times. The latter two are also good bets when venturing off the beaten path, where cell service can get spotty.
Travel Advisor
Jennifer Wozniak
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