Discover a Scenic Road Trip from San Francisco to Napa Valley Wine Country.
From the Golden Gate’s urban allure to the vineyard-lined roads of Wine Country, The Scenic Route: A Northern California Road Trip isn’t just a drive; it’s an experience. Set out from the iconic streets of San Francisco and head north to the heart of Napa Valley on a road trip rich with sweeping landscapes, charming towns and unforgettable flavors. Let Noble House Hotels & Resorts elevate your adventure with inspired stays and insider access to the very best of Northern California.
Start in San Francisco
Stay at The Argonaut Hotel
Begin your journey with The Argonaut Hotel, a historic gem nestled on San Francisco’s iconic waterfront. Located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, this nautically inspired retreat offers sweeping views of the Bay, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, blending classic charm with easy access to the city’s most beloved attractions.
Day 1: Explore San Francisco
- Grab breakfast at Buena Vista, home of the famed Irish Coffee across from the Argonaut
- Walk or bike along Crissy Field for views of the Golden Gate Bridge
- Optional: Visit Alcatraz Island or the Exploratorium if you’re feeling curious
AFTERNOON
- Lunch at La Mar on the Embarcadero (Peruvian food & Bay views)
- Head to Golden Gate Park for a stroll through the Conservatory of Flowers or de Young Museum
EVENING
- Enjoy dinner on the patio at Blue Mermaid (seafood with waterfront dining)
- Overnight at Argonaut Hotel
Day 2: Scenic Drive to Napa with Marin & Sonoma Stops
MORNING
- Check out and cross the Golden Gate Bridge
- Stop at the Marin Headlands for a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge
- Drive into Sausalito – grab breakfast at Sausalito Bakery & Cafe
- Optional: Stop at Muir Woods for a short redwood hike (get timed entry in advance)
MIDDAY
- Head to Petaluma – explore antique shops and have lunch at Della Fattoria
- Optional detour: Visit Point Reyes Station or grab oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co.
AFTERNOON
- Drive into Sonoma for a stroll around the historic town plaza
- Enjoy a casual tasting at Sebastiani Vineyards or Scribe Winery
Welcome to Napa Valley
Stay at River Terrace Inn and Experience the Napa Valley Wine Train
Continue the journey and head north to world-renowned Napa Valley and check in at River Terrace Inn, a serene riverside retreat just steps from downtown Napa. Unwind with local wine, scenic views and warm hospitality, then climb aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train for a gourmet ride through scenic vineyards and legendary landscapes.
ARRIVE IN NAPA VALLEY
- Arrive in Napa Valley and check in to the River Terrace Inn
- Dinner at Oxbow Public Market, a vibrant, 40,000 sq ft indoor-outdoor market nestled along the Napa River in downtown Napa’s lively Oxbow District. Featuring over 22 local food vendors and artisans; market favorites include Fieldwork Brewing, Model Bakery and Gott’s Roadside.
Day 3: Ride the Napa Valley Wine Train
- Enjoy a riverside breakfast at Alba Bar + Café (onsite at River Terrace Inn)
- Board the Napa Valley Wine Train for a full day of wine tasting or a leisurely lunch experience:
- The Legacy Experience: multi-course lunch + vineyard stops
- Vista Dome Experience: panoramic views + gourmet dining in the glass-domed car
- Tour the Train or explore the full array of Napa Valley Wine Train experiences in advance of your visit
AFTERNOON
- After the train, relax with a stroll along the Napa Riverfront Promenade
- Optional: Head to Artesa or Domaine Carneros for more tasting with a view
EVENING
- Al fresco cocktails at riverfront Alba Bar + Café
- Dinner at nearby Slanted Door for innovated and inspired Vietnamese cuisine
Day 4: Late Morning Chill + Return
MORNING
- Sleep in and enjoy a slow breakfast on the River Terrace Inn patio
- Optional: Bike ride along the Napa Valley Vine Trail
- Last-minute shopping or tasting in Downtown Napa or Vintner’s Collective
AFTERNOON OPTIONS
- Head back to San Francisco (approx. 1–1.5 hrs.)
- Or extend your wine country stay with a detour to Calistoga for mud baths and a gondola ride at Sterling Vineyards or Yountville for lunch at Bouchon Bistro and sips of sparkling wine at Chandon.
Travel Tips
- Best time to go: Late Spring through early fall for sunny weather and vivid vineyard views
- Reservations required for wine tastings, the Wine Train and fine dining spots
- What to pack: For touring, exploring and wine tastings pack casual resort wear, comfy walking shoes, a hat and layers for cool evenings. Bring your best, dress-to-impress California chic attire for elegant experiences on the Wine Train.