Napa At a Glance

Best Time to Go
Anytime! The gorgeous views and luxury accommodations of California’s wine country make this the perfect year-round alternative to a honeymoon in Tuscany.

Average Weather
Even in January, the average daytime high temperature is in the 50s. But in June, July and August average highs stay in the balmy 80s. From December through March, average low temperatures hit the 30s but stay above freezing. January sees the most rain. The summer months are all exceptionally dry. Even in the summer, it’s best to bring a sweater or light jacket for evening breezes.

Transportation
The area is served by San Francisco International Airport and Oakland International airport. Over 40 airlines, including numerous international carriers, serve San Francisco International. Oakland is a smaller, easier-to-negotiate airport served by just over 10 carriers. Once you’ve deplaned, you’ll need a rental car to enjoy and explore Napa Valley. Most major national car rental companies have outlets at San Francisco International with quite a few located in Oakland. One good alternative is to begin your trip with a few days in San Francisco and rent a car when you are ready to leave the city. If you choose that itinerary, you’ll find ground transportation and information on the lower levels of each terminal.

In-Season Costs
Napa Valley is an extremely expensive playground. Expect to pay a bare minimum of $125 nightly for a room unless you run into a rare bargain. After that, the sky is the limit, with lots of spas and luxury bed and breakfasts this can be a break-the-bank trip, but vacationers who’ve toured wine country say it’s unforgettable. Plan to spend around $30 to dine without wine and around $12 for lunch at a moderate restaurant --- but don’t stop there, the area is full of gourmet restaurants that are special-occasion perfect.

Day Trips
You must get a Wine Country map, available from the Napa and Sonoma Valley Tourist offices to direct your drive. As the area is one you’ll want to roam, plan your vacation as a series of day trips. San Francisco is the best daytrip refuge, an urban jewel in the midst of bucolic splendor.