Sonoma Valley is a paradise for wine lovers, made even more alluring thanks to its easy access on a day tour from San Francisco.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Although the global name recognition of Napa Valley is undoubtedly greater than Sonoma Valley, these two neighboring wine regions in California have long been hard to distinguish when it comes to quality. When asked “which is better, Napa or Sonoma?” many locals struggle to give a definitive answer. Sonoma is generally considered to be the more affordable wine destination of the two, but that could partly be due to its lesser brand recognition. Either way, it’s always best to test it out for yourself by taking one of these fantastic Sonoma wine tours.
Half-Day Wine Country Excursion with Tastings
Enjoy between three and five wine tastings across two separate wineries on this excellent value Sonoma excursion. At each spot you’ll get to take a tour of the estate before sampling signature blends from each. One of the joys of visiting Sonoma Valley, which is to the north of San Francisco, is the journey itself. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge along the way, then watch the vineyard-dominated scenery roll by. Daily departures are available. From $99 per person.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Sonoma Valley Half-Day Wine Country Tour from San Francisco
Another half-day wine excursion from San Francisco takes in the Carneros Wine Region, which spans parts of both Napa and Sonoma valleys. Departing in the early afternoon, you will visit at least two (or occasionally three) wineries, usually one a mass production spot and the other a boutique winery, with a tasting session provided at each one. Your tour guide will also provide commentary on the bus about the highlights and history of the area as you journey through the picturesque countryside. From $100 per person.
San Francisco Small-Group Sonoma Wine Tour with Tastings
If you’re serious about your wines and really would prefer to make a day of it in Sonoma Valley (Fisherman’s Wharf is roughly an hour’s drive away), then a nine-hour tour is the perfect way to ensure you get to spend as much time as possible surrounded by vineyards and their delightful produce. Groups never exceed 13 people and the quality of winery visited on this tour is very high, with three different stops and tastings included in the itinerary. From $149 per person.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Redwood & Wine Country Tour with Lunch & Wine
Combination tours are a great way for visitors to make the most of their money and time. This ten-hour trip allows you to visit both the Sonoma and Napa valleys and experience their wine producing prowess. In addition to tastings at three different wineries, the tour operators also manage to fit in other highlights on the north side of San Francisco Bay, such as Golden Gate Bridge and a stop to see the giant redwood trees of Muir Woods National Monument. Lunch is also included in this tour price. From $224 per person.
Guided Private Wine Tour to Napa and Sonoma Wine Country
If you’re traveling with a larger group of up to eight people who are all of legal drinking age, then the savings and the value for money of a private tour are a win-win. You can request to visit a customized selection of boutique wineries to fit your group’s general preferences, select from locations in Sonoma Valley or nearby Napa, and ensure that you have a guide all to yourselves. Please note that tasting fees are not included in this tour’s price. From $800 per group.