Trip to Nappa and SF

Question

We are flying into SF end of August, and planning to spend a week split between Nappa and SF. We'll drive first to Nappa and then come back to SF. We'd appreciate any suggestions for an itinerary, and on opinion on which area to spend the 4 days in, and which to stay for 3.

While in SF we'd like to possibly go to :

Alcatraz

Golden Gate Bridge

China Town

Trolley ride through the hilly streets

Ghiradelli Square

Sausalito

Muir Woods

In Nappa, we obviously will go to the wineries (we do like wine but I don't think we'd do more than 2/day). We'd also enjoy art galleries, bike rides, redwoods, etc. and even some relaxation by the hotel pool. I'm probably too nervous to go up in an air balloon!

People are suggesting we spend 4 days in Nappa and 3 in SF.

Any opinions or suggestions?

Thanks!

Answer

For a week-long trip split between Napa Valley and San Francisco, your plan to spend 4 days in Napa and 3 days in San Francisco makes sense, especially if you want a more relaxed pace in the wine country and ample time to explore the city without feeling rushed.

In Napa, consider a mix of winery visits, leisurely activities, and some cultural stops. Since you prefer 1–2 wineries per day, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy other experiences without feeling hurried.

Day 1: Arrive and settle into your hotel. Explore downtown Napa, check out art galleries, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Visit two wineries in the morning and early afternoon. Consider a winery with outdoor seating and views for a relaxed lunch. Spend the evening at the hotel pool or spa.
Day 3: Try a bike ride through the vineyards or along the Napa Valley Vine Trail. You could also visit Castello di Amorosa or Domaine Carneros for scenic views and tasting.
Day 4: Mix a final winery visit with a local farmers’ market or a small art museum. Finish the day with a relaxed dinner before driving back to San Francisco.

In San Francisco, your 3-day itinerary should balance iconic sights and some leisure time:

Day 5: Explore the waterfront: Alcatraz (book early), Ghirardelli Square, and walk along Pier 39. Optionally, take a short bay cruise or enjoy lunch with views of the Bay.
Day 6: Golden Gate Bridge and nearby viewpoints, Sausalito for a relaxed afternoon, and a stroll in Chinatown. Evening trolley ride through the hilly streets.
Day 7: Morning visit to Muir Woods for the redwoods, return to the city for a final stroll, or visit a museum or neighborhood you may have missed. Prepare for your departure.

Additional tips:

Booking winery tours and tastings ahead of time is recommended, especially for popular estates.
Allow extra time for traffic between Napa and San Francisco; it’s roughly 1.5–2 hours depending on route and time of day.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for San Francisco’s hilly streets and casual attire for wine country.

This itinerary gives you a balanced experience: relaxed and indulgent in Napa, sightseeing and iconic San Francisco activities, without feeling too rushed.