Sip and See: The Ultimate 3 Day Sonoma Winery Itinerary

Are you planning a getaway to California’s wine country? Look no further than my 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.

After originally planning a trip to Napa Valley, through much research, I found only fourteen miles separate Napa from Sonoma.

Sonoma is, however, more affordable, with just as many beautiful wineries, many of which are family-owned. You will feel like you are in the Italian countryside with views for miles.

This three day Sonoma itinerary includes my top picks for wineries, restaurants, and activities to ensure your California wine-country adventure is nothing short of spectacular. So, come along with me as I help you plan a perfect Sonoma winery itinerary.

Get ready to toast to an unforgettable wine-filled escape!

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Why Visit Sonoma?

Sonoma County has produced exceptional wines for over 150 years, thanks to its unique blend of microclimates, diverse soil, 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 to large-scale wine estates in Sonoma Wine Country, each unique but with unparalleled wine experiences.

Day 1 Itinerary

Drive from San Francisco to Sonoma

I suggest starting your trip by flying into San Francisco. We flew into Oakland and rented a car. You can read how we spent time in San Francisco before heading to Sonoma.

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.

Leave the bustling streets of San Francisco and head to the serene vineyards of Sonoma. You are in for a treat as you drive this picturesque route filled with breathtaking views and charming towns.

Drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, where the stunning coastal vistas of Sausalito and Mill Valley will greet you. As you wind through the idyllic Marin County countryside, the lush landscapes and dramatic mountain backdrops will leave you in awe.

My favorite city on this route is Sausalito, although each offers unique attractions and opportunities to explore.

Of course, you can take a detour to the enchanting town of Tiburon, where you can meander through quaint shops and cafes or venture into the majestic Muir Woods to marvel at the towering redwoods.

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 during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the traffic is lighter. Remember that summer weekends can be busier, with 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.

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 Sonoma wineries. 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

Before checking into your Sonoma vacation rental, 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 that houses the tasting room offers a welcoming atmosphere. I recommend starting 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

Check into your Sonoma Rental

Another thing you will love about Sonoma is its more affordable vacation rentals. I found the best vacation rental for our girls’ wine trip.

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 provides a serene and relaxing atmosphere, allowing you to immerse yourselves in your Sonoma winery itinerary fully.

Explore Sonoma Plaza

After visiting two wineries and checking into your Sonoma vacation rental, end day one of your Sonoma winery 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.

The foodies in us were delighted by 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, as we did 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.

Sadly, our service was not as exceptional as the food itself. Our waiter left us feeling slightly judged by our wine choice, but it was not enough to deter us from the overall experience.

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 Itinerary: Winery Hopping at Some of the Best Wineries in Sonoma

Today you will visit four of my favorite wineries on the Sonoma 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. So, let’s get started!

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 boasts 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 allows the restaurant to provide their employees with a fair wage and additional benefits, ensuring a happy and well-supported staff.

Sonoma Winery Itinerary Visit #3 – Ferrari-Carano Winery

Today’s first winery on our itinerary is the beautiful grounds of Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery in Healdsburg. Famous for its top-quality wines, vineyards, gardens, and views, Ferrari-Carano gives off Italian countryside vibes.

Their focus on caring for the environment and attention to detail helps each wine capture the true taste of the land. Ferrari-Carano is dedicated to excellence and creativity, offering a variety of wines, including special blends and single-grape wines.

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 was undoubtedly a highlight of our journey.

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 allowed us 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 on any wine lover’s journey.

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 before having 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. We chose to kick back and relax at the vacation rental after stopping at the local grocer, Whole Foods. However, I recommend dinner at The Charter Oak Restaurant if you want to eat out.

This 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.

The open kitchen and custom-made wood-fired grill further enhance the dining experience.

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: Final Winery Visit and Return to San Francisco

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 at Sweet Pea Bake Shop before getting on the road this morning. They have 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 pick up savory options, like 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 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 organizes special events throughout the year, including movies on the lawn, music events, health and wellness, and photography. 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 perfect for outdoor events, 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 winery itinerary.

We actually planned to visit so many more, but we enjoyed the wineries we did visit; we didn’t want to rush. As you drive, you may see one you want to stop at, so go ahead and stop. Curate your perfect winery itinerary using my 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 my 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 one of these tours, especially for day two of the itinerary.

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.

By considering the best times to visit, selecting wineries that resonate with your preferences, exploring transportation options, enjoying the local cuisine and attractions, and seeking out hidden gems, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

So, raise a glass, and start planning your dream wine-tasting adventure in Sonoma Wine Country today! This may be your first time in Sonoma, but it definitely won’t be your last.