Sonoma Itinerary
Sonoma Itinerary
Embark on a delightful journey through the heart of California's wine country. Discover the charm, culture, and culinary excellence of Sonoma over an immersive five-day tour. Whether you’re a wine aficionado, a lover of the great outdoors, or simply in need of a tranquil getaway, our carefully crafted itinerary ensures a memorable experience. Below, find a day-by-day guide to the best sights, tastes, and adventures Sonoma County has to offer.
Day 1: Exploring Sonoma's Wineries and Downtown Sonoma
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Time |
Activity |
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8:30 AM |
Breakfast at Sunflower Caffé Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Sunflower Caffé on the historic Sonoma Plaza. This cafe offers a variety of breakfast dishes and excellent coffee to fuel your day of exploration. |
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10:00 AM |
Visit Buena Vista Winery Begin your wine-tasting journey at Buena Vista Winery, one of California's oldest wineries. Explore the historic cellars, take a guided tour, and taste a selection of their classic wines. |
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11:30 AM |
Visit Buena Vista Winery Begin your wine-tasting journey at Buena Vista Winery, one of California's oldest wineries. Explore the historic cellars, take a guided tour, and taste a selection of their classic wines. |
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Time |
Activity |
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1:00 PM |
Lunch at The Girl & The Fig Head back to the Sonoma Plaza for lunch at The Girl & The Fig, a popular restaurant with a French-inspired menu. Enjoy a selection of charcuterie, cheeses, and local wines. |
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2:30 PM |
Tasting at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards After lunch, drive to St. Francis Winery & Vineyards in the Kenwood area. This winery offers a beautiful setting and a range of wines to taste. Option for an outdoor tasting experience if the weather is pleasant. |
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11:30 AM |
Visit Buena Vista Winery Begin your wine-tastinourney at Buena Vista Winery, one of California's oldest wineries. Explore the historic cellars, take a guided tour, and taste a selection of their classic wines. |
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4:00 PM |
Visit Chateau St. Jean Continue to Chateau St. Jean, where you can explore the manicured gardens and taste their award-winning wines. Don't forget to visit their wine shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. |
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6:00 PM |
Dinner at Glen Ellen Star End your first day with dinner at Glen Ellen Star, a charming restaurant in the village of Glen Ellen. Enjoy wood-fired dishes and a glass of wine from their extensive list. |
Day 2: Discovering Healdsburg and Northern Sonoma
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Time |
Activity |
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9:00 AM |
Breakfast at The Parish Café Start your second day with a classic Southern breakfast at The Parish Café in Healdsburg. Enjoy their popular beignets and breakfast specialties. |
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10:30 AM |
Tasting at Jordan Vineyard & Winery Head to Jordan Vineyard & Winery, known for its elegant estate and exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Take a tour of the winery and grounds, and enjoy a seated tasting with stunning views. |
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12:00 PM |
Visit Dry Creek Vineyard Next, visit Dry Creek Vineyard, a family-owned winery with a focus on sustainable practices. Enjoy a tasting of their Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc, among other wines. |
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Time |
Activity |
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1:30 PM |
Lunch at Healdsburg Bar & Grill For lunch, head to Healdsburg Bar & Grill, a laid-back spot offering burgers, salads, and other casual fare. It's a great place to relax and recharge before more wine tasting. |
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3:00 PM |
Tasting at Simi Winery In the afternoon, visit Simi Winery, one of Sonoma's oldest continuously operating wineries. Explore their historic stone cellars and enjoy a tasting of their Cabernet Sauvignon and other signature wines. |
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5:00 PM |
Visit Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery Your final winery stop is Ferrari-Carano, known for its beautiful Italianate gardens and expansive tasting rooms. Explore the grounds and sample a range of wines, including their popular Fumé Blanc. |
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7:00 PM |
Dinner at Barndiva End your two-day Sonoma tour with dinner at Barndiva in Healdsburg. This upscale restaurant offers a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients and a refined atmosphere. Pair your meal with a glass of Sonoma wine to close out your trip. |
Additional Notes
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Transportation: Consider hiring a designated driver, using a ride-sharing service, or booking a private wine tour to ensure safe transportation between wineries. Sonoma's winding roads can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the area, and it's crucial to drink responsibly.
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Weather: Sonoma's weather can vary, with cooler mornings and evenings even in summer. Dress in layers, and bring a light jacket or sweater. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities.
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Wine Shipping: If you plan to purchase wine, inquire about shipping options at each winery. This can save you the hassle of transporting bottles during your trip and avoid airline restrictions if you're flying.
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Alternative Activities: If you'd like a break from wine tasting, consider other activities like hiking in Sonoma Valley Regional Park, visiting local art galleries, or exploring the historic Sonoma Plaza's shops and museums.]
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Timing: Give yourself extra time between stops to enjoy the scenery and avoid rushing. It's better to take your time and fully enjoy each experience rather than packing too much into your schedule.
