Sip and See: The Ultimate 3 Day Sonoma Winery Itinerary
When my daughter-in-law and her twin sister told me they were planning a girls’ getaway to wine country, I expected a few vineyard photos and tales of good rosé. What I got instead was a glowing trip report from their Sonoma Valley itinerary—sun-drenched, wine-splashed, and full of personality. Are you planning a getaway to California’s wine country? Look no further than this carefully curated Sonoma winery itinerary, designed to make your trip a memorable and relaxing escape.
With its rolling vineyards, charming tasting rooms, and world-class wines, Sonoma County is the perfect destination for a weekend of laughter, bonding, and indulgence with your closest friends.
With only fourteen miles separating Napa from Sonoma, choosing Sonoma is a no-brainer.
Sonoma is more affordable, with just as many beautiful wineries, many of which are family-owned. You will feel as though you are in the Italian countryside, with views stretching for miles.
Rolling hills, winding roads, and that magical moment when the city skyline gives way to vineyard rows all set the perfect tone for a Sonoma Valley girls’ getaway.
Get ready to toast to an unforgettable wine-filled escape!
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Why Visit Sonoma?
Sonoma County has been producing exceptional wines for over 150 years, thanks to its unique blend of microclimates, diverse soils, and dedicated winemakers.
Sonoma is considered the birthplace of the California wine industry, and it is the most convenient to reach from San Francisco.
It’s home to over 400 wineries and sprawling vineyards and is celebrated for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and many more varieties.
You will find family-owned operations and large-scale wine estates in Sonoma Wine Country, each unique yet offering unparalleled wine experiences.
Day 1 Itinerary
Drive from San Francisco to Sonoma
I suggest starting your trip by flying into San Francisco. Rent a car and take the scenic route north.
To save time, you can also fly into Sonoma County Airport; however, the flights are typically more expensive.
The scenic drive from San Francisco to Sonoma is only about 45 miles, so you can be in wine country by mid-morning if you leave early.
As you make this scenic drive, the winding roads provide many opportunities to soak in the awe-inspiring panoramas of the surrounding countryside.
To make the most of your San Francisco to Sonoma adventure, plan your trip for the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and traffic is lighter. Keep in mind that summer weekends can be busier, with increased traffic and potential delays.
Regardless of the season, this unforgettable drive gives you a glimpse of the beauty and charm of Northern California’s wine country.
Check into your Sonoma Rental
Another thing you will love about Sonoma is its stylish vacation rentals, like the Casita Monterey Sonoma.
The Casita Monterey Sonoma has everything you need for your wine trip to Sonoma. This charming vacation rental offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience.
The outdoor patio, with comfortable seating and a barbecue, is perfect for alfresco dining or simply relaxing with a glass of wine in the evening.
This vacation rental is ideal for exploring the best of Sonoma’s wine country. With its prime location, you can easily access many renowned wineries, award-winning restaurants, and charming local shops.
Staying at the Casita Monterey Sonoma is an absolute delight. The property offers a serene and relaxing atmosphere with plenty of room for laughter, wine, and unwinding in true wine country fashion.
Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #1 – Benziger Family Winery
You want to make the most of your time in Sonoma, so waste no time making the Benziger Family Winery your first stop of the day on your Sonoma winery itinerary.
You will love the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Benziger Family Winery. The staff greets you with genuine enthusiasm and is eager to share their knowledge and passion for wine. The rolling vineyards and lush gardens provide a serene backdrop for a truly immersive tasting experience.
Its commitment to sustainable farming practices sets the Benziger Family Winery apart from other wineries in Sonoma. Their dedication to nurturing the land and preserving the natural environment is evident in every aspect of their operation, from the vineyards to the tasting room.
The Benziger Family Winery’s tasting room is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with the last pour at 4:30 PM.
There are several tasting options to choose from, including the Classic Wine Tasting ($20 per person), the Reserve Wine Tasting ($30 per person), and the Biodynamic Vineyard Tram Tour ($50 per person), which includes a guided tour and a tasting of their estate wines.
Benziger Family Winery – 1883 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442
Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #2 – Muscardini Cellars
Make your next stop at the Muscardini Cellars, a charming winery that offers an unforgettable experience.
With its Italian-style winemaking and an array of tasting experiences, Muscardini Cellars is a must-visit destination for any wine lover.
The historic red schoolhouse, which houses the tasting room, offers a welcoming atmosphere. Start with the Signature Tasting Flight. This tasting introduces you to Muscardini’s signature Italian varietals, taking you on a journey from Sonoma to Mendocino.
Muscardini Cellars – 9380 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452
Explore Sonoma Plaza
After visiting two wineries and checking into your Sonoma vacation rental, end day one of your Sonoma Valley itinerary at Historic Sonoma Plaza.
A visit to the heart of Sonoma Valley is incomplete without exploring this historic spot. It brims with romance, culture, and charm.
As the number one attraction in Sonoma, the Plaza offers a delightful blend of old-world adobe storefronts, picturesque courtyards, and meandering alleyways, all set amidst a tranquil, tree-canopied green space. You will also find plenty of tasting rooms and cellars.
Stop at the Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau for maps and help with driving routes. They can even help you with making reservations.
Foodies will delight in the eclectic mix of restaurants and cafes in the area.
Sample the mouth-watering farm-to-table cuisine at the acclaimed the girl & the fig, or indulge in authentic Italian fare at Della Santina’s Trattoria.
As you wander the Plaza, venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems such as the enchanting Sonoma Garden Park, a local treasure filled with lush gardens and scenic vistas. Or, explore the unique boutiques and galleries that line the Plaza’s charming streets, offering a treasure trove of local art, crafts, and souvenirs.
Before dinner, check out the Barracks or Mission San Francisco Solano, just two of the buildings part of Sonoma State Historic Park.
Dinner at Della Santina’s
When you step into Della Santina’s, you are transported to a cozy Italian trattoria nestled in the heart of Sonoma’s historic Plaza.
Della Santina’s menu offers a delightful array of Italian classics crafted with the freshest ingredients and a passion for authentic flavors.
As for the restaurant’s atmosphere, Della Santina’s exudes a warm and inviting charm.
The space is impeccably clean, and the outdoor patio offers a lovely alfresco dining experience beneath a canopy of twinkling lights.
Be sure to treat yourself to a meal at Della Santina’s – you won’t be disappointed.
Della Santina’s – 133 E Napa St, Sonoma, CA 95476
Day 2: Winery Hopping at Some of the Best Wineries in Sonoma
On day two, visit some of the most favorite wineries on the Sonoma Valley itinerary. You can try to fit in more visits, but you will undoubtedly feel rushed. Plus, the wineries you visit today deserve, at the very least, an hour of your time.
Breakfast in Sonoma Plaza
You’ll want to start day two of the Sonoma winery itinerary with a filling breakfast.
Sunflower Caffé is a beloved breakfast destination in Sonoma, California, renowned for its delectable dishes crafted from fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients.
The breakfast menu features a variety of scrumptious options, including classic favorites such as avocado toast, buttermilk biscuit sandwiches, and granola waffles.
At Sunflower Caffé, there’s no need to worry about tipping, as it’s already incorporated into your bill.
This thoughtful approach enables the restaurant to offer its employees a fair wage and additional benefits, thereby ensuring a happy and well-supported staff.
Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #3 – Ferrari-Carano Winery
Today’s first winery is the beautiful Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery located in Healdsburg. Famous for its top-quality wines, vineyards, gardens, and stunning views, Ferrari-Carano evokes Italian countryside vibes, reminiscent of those found in the Tuscan countryside.
Their focus on caring for the environment and attention to detail help each wine capture the authentic taste of the land.
Ferrari-Carano is dedicated to excellence and creativity, offering a diverse range of wines, including specialty blends and single-grape varietals.
Walking through the perfectly manicured gardens, you’ll be amazed by the gorgeous views of the vineyards.
The picturesque scenery creates a dreamy ambiance for savoring their delightful wines. This winery will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip.
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery – 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, California, 95448
Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #4 – Dutcher Crossing Winery
Stop number two on today’s itinerary is a treat!
As you approach Dutcher Crossing Winery, the warm and welcoming architecture inspired by the charming farmhouses of the region invites you to explore its beautifully designed interior. The decor combines a perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern sophistication, while the surrounding vineyards create an Instagram-worthy backdrop.
Thanks to the knowledgeable and friendly staff, Dutcher Crossing Winery’s wine-tasting experience is exceptional. The relaxed vibe at this winery allows you to enjoy each other’s company and the wine on the beautiful grounds.
As you sip on exquisite wines, the panoramic views from the tasting room elevate the experience with the beauty of the Sonoma landscape.
Dutcher Crossing Winery takes great pride in its top-rated wines.
Among the standouts, the rich and complex Cabernet Sauvignon, the vibrant and crisp Sauvignon Blanc, and the luscious and velvety Zinfandel will leave a lasting impression.
Dutcher Crossing Winery – 8533 Dry Creek Road, Geyserville, CA 95441
Lunch and Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #5 – Francis Ford Coppola Winery
When you think the wineries cannot possibly get any more beautiful, enter Francis Ford Coppola Winery, which is so much more than a winery.
The Francis Ford Coppola Winery is a stunning destination steeped in history and cinematic charm.
As the brainchild of the legendary filmmaker, this winery offers a unique fusion of wine, food, and entertainment, making it an unmissable stop.
Inside, the beautifully designed tasting room awaits.
It is adorned with memorabilia from Coppola’s iconic films and offers a unique wine-tasting experience.
Additionally, the winery features special exhibits and installations that showcase its rich history and connection to the world of cinema.
A visit to Francis Ford Coppola Winery is filled with delightful activities, from sampling their exquisite wines to guided tours that delve into the winemaking process.
Plan far enough in advance, and you can even reserve a poolside Cabine to enjoy the afternoon lounging by the pool and sipping wine.
Don’t worry if the Cabines are booked! You can still enjoy a gourmet lunch at the Poolside Cafe.
The winery’s hours of operation are typically from 11 AM to 6 PM daily.
Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #6 – Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens
Your last winery for the day is the Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate and Gardens.
Depending on how much you enjoyed the first three wineries of the day, your time here may be limited, but it is still worth a look around.
Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens provides a variety of tasting experiences, including estate wine tastings, food pairings, garden tours, picnics, and farm-to-table dinners.
I recommend booking the Garden Tour & Tasting. You will be guided through the estate’s culinary garden on a 30-minute tour, followed by a guided tasting on one of the beautiful outdoor patios. It is offered from April through October.
In addition to the tastings, you can order a Cheese & Charcuterie Board for an additional $45 or bring your own picnic.
Remember to make a reservation in advance.
Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens – 5007 Fulton Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Unwind with Dinner and a Bottle of Wine
After a full day of winery tours and tastings, unwind and reminisce about the day over a great meal.
Kick back and relax at your vacation rental after stopping at the local grocer, Whole Foods, or choose to dine out at The Charter Oak Restaurant.
The Charter Oak Restaurant, a renowned eatery, has become synonymous with exceptional food, a picturesque location, and an unparalleled dining experience. There is much to love about Charter Oak’s menu, beginning with the Charter Oak bread and ending with the unforgettable scrumptious desserts.
Perhaps the most distinctive aspect of The Charter Oak is its yurts – private, tent-like structures designed for intimate dining experiences.
Each yurt is beautifully crafted and can accommodate up to six guests. They are only available from November to March, so ask about reserving one if you visit during those months.
The Charter Oak – 1050 Charter Oak Avenue, St. Helena, CA 94574
Day 3 Itinerary: Sonoma Charm and Farewell Toasts
Say goodbye to Sonoma today. You are heading back home, but not before one more winery stop.
But first, breakfast.
Breakfast at Sweet Pea Bake Shop
Stop by Sweet Pea Bake Shop before hitting the road this morning for incredible flaky pastries like maple bacon cronuts and kougin ammans – think donuts and muffins made with croissant dough! Yum!
If sweets aren’t your thing, you can opt for savory options, such as chilaquiles or a breakfast burrito.
Sweet Pea Bake Shop – 720 W Napa St, Sonoma, CA 95476
Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #7 – Viansa Sonoma Winery & Tasting
Bid farewell to Sonoma wine country with a stop at yet another picture-perfect winery, the Viansa Winery.
Whether you consider yourself a wine aficionado or are simply looking to learn and enjoy, Viansa Winery is the perfect destination to end your Sonoma Valley adventure.
Viansa Winery features a variety of tasting options, all within a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Choose from multiple options, including fireside-guided tastings to grabbing a bottle and enjoying the Adirondack chairs with your party. There is something for everyone.
In addition to wine tastings, the winery hosts special events throughout the year, including outdoor movie screenings, live music performances, health and wellness activities, and photography workshops. Check their upcoming events page for your travel dates.
The winery is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Viansa Winery & Marketplace – 25200 Arnold Dr, Sonoma, CA 95476-9222
7 Tips for Planning Your Sonoma Winery Itinerary
Choose the Best Time to Visit
While Sonoma Wine Country is a year-round destination, certain times of the year may offer a more memorable experience.
Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor events, with beautiful vineyard views and warm weather.
Fall brings harvest season and vibrant foliage, while winter offers fewer crowds and cozy winery settings.
Consider your personal preferences and event calendars when planning your visit.
Make Reservations
For the best experience in Sonoma Valley, plan ahead and make reservations. You will also want to check the winery hours and days of operation.
Select Wineries Based on Personal Style
With hundreds of wineries to choose from, I have given you just seven on this Sonoma Valley itinerary.
You’ll no doubt want to visit so many more, but to really enjoy the wineries, you won’t want to rush.
As you drive, you may see one you want to stop at, so feel free to stop. Curate your perfect winery itinerary using these suggestions.
Purchase the Sonoma County Tasting Pass
To save money, consider purchasing the Sonoma County Tasting Pass on the Sonoma County Tourism website. This versatile pass provides access to many of the award-winning wineries.
For one price, you can enjoy tasting flights and exclusive discounts in one of the world’s top wine regions.
Not all Sonoma wineries are included, but I did include many on this Sonoma winery itinerary.
Navigate Sonoma Wine Country with Ease
Considering transportation options is crucial when visiting wineries in Sonoma County. This Sonoma winery itinerary assumes you will self-drive, so you need a designated driver.
If you want someone else to drive or are looking for a more guided experience in Sonoma, I recommend either of these tours, especially for the second day of your itinerary.
Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley Tour
Explore Sonoma Valley in style aboard the Wine Trolley, modeled after San Francisco’s iconic cable cars.
This tour includes visits to three picturesque wineries, tastings of regional varietals, a delicious lunch from VJB Cellars, and insights into Sonoma’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide.
Sonoma Valley Wine Tour
This private Sonoma Wine Country tour lets you customize your experience by selecting the wineries you want to visit.
The tour is good for up to six people, and the driver will pick you up from your vacation rental.
Wine-tasting fees are not included.
Savor Local Cuisine and Attractions
While wine may be the primary focus of your trip, Sonoma Wine Country offers many culinary delights and other attractions worth exploring.
Plan to visit local farm-to-table restaurants, artisanal cheese shops, or charming cafes that complement your winery experiences.
Cultural attractions, such as art galleries, historic sites, and outdoor activities, can also enhance your Sonoma itinerary.
Discover Hidden Gems
One of the most exciting aspects of visiting Sonoma Wine Country is uncovering your favorite winery.
Consider adding these wineries to your itinerary if you have more days in Sonoma.
- Buena Vista Winery – 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA, 95476
- Historic Buena Vista Winery – the oldest commercial winery in California
- Larson Family Winery – 23355 Millerick Road, Sonoma, CA 95476
- Larson Family Winery for a fun, winery experience with outdoor games
- Gundlach Bundschu Winery – 2000 Denmark Street, Sonoma, CA 95476
- Gundlach Bundschu Winery – go on a Pinz excursion or explore a wine cave at the oldest family-owned winery
Plan Your Sonoma Wine Country Adventure
Sonoma Wine Country offers endless possibilities for creating a personalized Sonoma winery itinerary catered to your tastes and interests.
A Sonoma Valley girls’ getaway is the perfect refresh. A few days of shared laughter, standout wines, and small discoveries tucked between vineyard views and vintage storefronts make this a vacation worth remembering.
This Sonoma Valley itinerary combines scenic drives, family-run wineries, fine dining, and history, all without a single moment of rush. Whether you’re celebrating friendship, a birthday, or just the freedom to travel while you can, Sonoma welcomes you with open arms and a chilled glass of Chardonnay.
So gather your girls, map your route, and raise a glass. Sonoma’s waiting, and it pairs perfectly with midlife magic.
