Hello! However, this is the slowest option. FAQ: What is a good route to travel to Yosemite (or to San Francisco) from Las Vegas? How long you spend in the Napa Valley really depends on your interest in wine. (Updated Jan. 2015). Wine taste in Napa & Sonoma with an excursion in the giant sequoias of Muir Woods, San Francisco's stunning Coastal Redwood Forest. The area is home to Ghirardelli Square, a wax museum, shopping centers, an aquarium, and much more. Its large campus is a sight to behold. Book Now. If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time. You have 3 full days and about 2 half days. Check out our Web Storiesfor more inspiration. All that personal attention means you might pay more than you would for a big group bus tour, but if you're traveling with several other people, the price difference grows smaller. a Gray Line customer. Learn more about each of these scenic routes into Yosemite, and get some ideas for things to do along the way. Each section suggests four things to do. The road trip map below recommends a more circuitous routing that only adds about two extra hours of drive time. With only 7 days & 6 nights, I think that the best use of time for your choices is SF (3 nights, get car when you leave) - Napa / Sonoma (2 nights) - Carmel / Monterey (1 night.) Please note on day 2 there are two optional tours so the fee will be different. Three Sonoma and Napa valley tastings. SF-(ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The first section of the drive starts from wherever you are in the Bay Area and ends in Fish Camp. Tucked along Hwy. Get Ready to Leave Your Heart It's not exactly cheap and, surprisingly, wine is not included unless you opt for a special package, but it is a luxury experience and the only way to see Napa by rail. The park isnt large and you can make a quick cultural stop by visiting the traditional round house. One hundred years after flooding Hetch Hetchy Valley, central Californias water struggles have only intensified. . 120 on the way to Yosemite, Oakdale holds its heritage close. Tour Yosemite Like a Local with Gypsy Guide Take the ferry from Vallejo Ferry Terminal to San Francisco Ferry Building Gate E. Take the bus from San Francisco to Merced. It was one of the countrys most infamous federal prisons. The state park is really fun for families as they offer docents in period attire, stagecoach rides and panning for gold. The latter will allow travelers to drive the Silverado Trail and witness various wineries such as Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, Clos du Val, and Silverado Vineyards. For its part, Yosemite Valley tallied 40 inches of snow Tuesday alone. On this road trip, youll trace the snowflakes route backwards. On this trip, you'll head into the wilderness of Yosemite National Park before a vino-tasting tour through the finest fine wine country in the US. The 45-acre estate including the acclaimed Juslyn Vineyards is for sale for $35 million. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 13h 14m . From Vallejo, connect to the Napa Valley VINE bus system Route 10, which can take you all the way to Calistoga . This region between San Francisco and Sacremento is internationally famous for its wines, which are considered among the best in the world. Your time here will fly by and by the time you leave youll most likely be planning your next trip! If you want to visit some wineries along the way, stick to the ones along Highway 29 and contact the winery directly to ask where the nearest bus stop is. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-43239749', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco in November. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. From Vallejo, connect to the Napa Valley VINE bus system Route 10, which can take you all the way to Calistoga. First stop will be the valley, where the visitor centre and a couple of hotels sit in the imposing shadow of El Capitan, a favourite of rock climbers from all over the world. Dear irene, yes, the total fee is around $600 per person and it doesn't include your own air ticket, meals and any private expenses. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a4e44061edd6cc9e94ca29cff754da9d" );document.getElementById("bdd8f95227").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); We are a participant in the various affiliate programs including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. The Napa Valley shouldn't be missed if you're in the area, although since it is filled with vineyards and if you're planning on tasting wine, we'd suggest spending the night (or . Best Alcatraz Tours combined with San Francisco, Napa, Silicon Valley & Redwoods. Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity John Muir (get more Muir quotes here). With a day to enjoy Napa Valley, you need to get stuck right into the wonderful food and wine of the region. Consider staying in either Fish Camp (which is near the Mariposa sequoia grove) or around Midpine and Mariposa (which is a lovely drive into the valley along the Merced river). In addition to being the tallest waterfall in North America, the Yosemite Falls are the seventh-tallest in the world. The Napa Valley is a scenic stop when travelling between San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. 16 San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise by Luxury Catamaran. Castello di Amorosa, a 13th century Tuscan-styled castle and winery, is the only authentic medieval castle in the United States. Read their Top Questions and any relevant threads (just 'lurk' on other threads; don't add your questions.) Day 10: Depart from San Francisco. V. Sattui is a family-owned winery, and its wines are only sold on-site, so it is not available anywhere else. Ages 12+. There is a ton to do in Yosemite valley. Where to see Superbloom Sunday (March 5th) near Los Angeles? Yosemite National Park is enormous so with two days to explore youre never going to see all of it, which means you need to plan wisely. This San Francisco to Yosemite road trip takes you from the soaring skyscrapers and salty sea air of the City by the Bay, through California's world-famous farmland and wine country, . There are also working stores selling authentic-ish goods like sarsaparilla soda, gold rush candies, soaps and more. This place requires reservations, so you should plan accordingly. Based in Napa Valley, Jess has extensively covered California wine country for numerous national . San Jose is the central city in the Silicon Valley region of California's Bay Area, which is world-famous for its technological innovations and successful startups. What is best way to fit Yosemite into San Francisco to Las Vegas drive (i am planning to complete the 7 day trip on this site to get from SF to LV including Bridgeport and Death Valley but not sure best way to include Yosemite into the trip). Take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) from San Francisco on the Richmond line. However, if you think that you have already had your fill of wine for the day, you can go to Oakville for your next stop and drop by the Oakville Grocery. Do this road trip in a rental RV to stay close to nature. The distance depends upon the season and whether or not you want to cover both falls. Stop #4: Jenner. 12-15 People. It hits up some lovely backroads and tackles both the northern and southern areas of Yosemite. We have 7 days and would like to stay in Napa for a few days and maybe visit Yosemite and Carmel. They have a down home friendly vibe, award winning wines and stunning views. Overview. Few valleys are as famous around the world as Napa Valley, with its stunning setting and Mediterranean climate. # of Tastings: Up to 3 stops and wine tastings included in the price. $25 $20 $15 $10 $5 30 20 10 0. This option will take one on Highway 101 North across the Golden Gate Bridge. Afterwards drive to Napa and visit the town. 5. The boutique vineyards and the premium wines combine with the dramatic views of the valley to form a truly idyllic setting just on the doorstep of San Francisco. Theyre growing more than almonds and peaches in the Central Valley (although if you do this drive in the spring, be sure to stop for thelovely almond blossoms). Try the Angele Restaurant and Bar, a bistro at the riverfront in a timeworn boathouse that serves French food. Continue north through wine country stopping in Healdsburg for wine tasting and a meal. It is also the oldest, having been founded in 1868. In the winter, Tioga Pass and other high elevation sites are closed. Also, will the weather be unpleasant this time of year? Yosemite has deep snowfall in the winter with many roads closed for the season while summer sees blue skies and lots of tourists. High up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, a snowflake falls. trip. California Dreaming: From Yosemite National Park to Napa and Sonoma Valley. Get an early start, because its over four hours of straight up drive time with lots of cool stops along the way. Next, they should continue their drive over a second bridge on Interstate 80 and through Vallejo. what they think could be improved, it's all here to help you make the most of your next The cheapest way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite is by a series of buses and a train. Her contributions reflects her special interest in travel, women health and celebrities. Napa Valley is a little . 1 Hour, Admission (Optional): Adult $32; Child (2-12 yrs) $25; Senior (Over 65 yrs) Free|Duration: Approx. Which ones have you tried? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-46694122', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite off the list. maybe next time! TOUR DESCRIPTION. This article was updated to detail the process and several options for driving from San Francisco to Napa Valley, either across the Golden Gate Bridge or across the Bay Bridge. The Sunny Side of the Bay Terms and Conditions. During the summer months, there are four entrances to Yosemite National Park. Just north of Sonora is the historic Columbia mining town. They will then follow the Interstate 80 - Berkeley/ Sacramento signs. Start your second day with some morning exploration taking you from Fisherman's Wharf to stylish Union Square. Leave San Francisco at 8am to reach Yosemite by noon. Convenient SF hotel pickup and drop off. Stop #3: Bodega Bay. Napa, as well as Oak Knoll and Yountville. Joshua - secluded in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is the home of Vista Point, the Marine Mammal Center, and beautiful views of San Francisco Bay. Yosemites natural wonders make it a very popular park, for both Californians and visitors. The Madera area also grows wine grapes and its a secret spot that is far less crowded than Napa or Paso. You can take a bus from Napa to Yosemite Valley via El Cerrito Del Norte BART Station, El Cerrito Del Norte, Hayward, Hayward, Merced Bus Stop, and Merced Transpo in around 9h 19m. Why not spend your day here kayaking on the water? There will be a sign reading "121 Napa/Calistoga." This San Francisco to Yosemite road trip itinerary will take you from the Bay Area to the park in one day, stops included. Depending on what time your flight arrives you could get out and explore, so why not head to the harbour for a bowl of clam chowder as the sun goes down the perfect start to a Californian adventure! Can I adjust? On your Yosemite adventure,listen to an entertaining guide in your car. The Yosemite Falls tumble down in three separate sections. One that allows them to stay on Highway 29 and takes them to the region's western side, and another that will take them along the valley's eastern end on Highway 121 Napa. Bus fare for a one-way trip to Calistoga is as low as $3. A mass of shimmering blue-green water, Lake Tahoe is a highlight of any trip to Northern California. Dr Knight realized that this stretch of the Stanislaus river made for a favorable crossing serving gold rush towns like Columbia and Sonora. It seems that options are all over the place. Go, Admission (Optional): Adult $40; Child (Under 21 yrs, without Wine Tasting) $40|Duration: Approx. For the trip itself, driving from San Francisco to Napa Valley takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic, and add a bit more if you are going to take the scenic route along the way. Thank you! * Please note the Tour Map is subject to change. This breathtaking stretch of coastline along California's Monterey Peninsula takes visitors through a maze of beautiful scenery, unique wildlife, and amazing mansions. There is, of course, the town of Napa, as well as Oak Knoll and Yountville, all of which provide lively social centers with shops and attractions. Continue through wine country . Re: San Francisco - Napa Valley - Yosemite? Tucked along Hwy. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Note: This question will be posted on a public forum. Check out some impressive numbers of Napa Valley: More than 400 wineries; Home to more than 150 restaurants; More Michelin stars per capita than any other wine region in the world FUN FACT: For all its (worthy) success, only 4% of California's wine comes from Napa Valley. Thanks for all of the great information! See the Most Controversial Spot in Yosemite near the Hetch Hetchy Entrance You may have to stay outside the park. If you do that, your train ticket to Napa from San Francisco will be about $4.94 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute. Day 2 : San Francisco - Napa. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-46693821', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');rent a car and at least see the city and Napa Valley. Share them with the rest of the community and you can, Standard Hotel: Marriot / Holiday Inn SFO / Beverly Heritage /Days Inn / Super 8 or similar, Choose 1 from Napa Valley+Sausalito or Redwood Forest+Monterey or Stanford+San Jose, Standard Hotel: Holiday Inn SFO, Park Pointe Hotel or Similar, Standard Hotel: Quality inn Merced or Similar, Modesto - Yosemite National Park - California Central Valley - Los Angeles. Visit Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, Cable Car, Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf & more! Vacation Packages: San Francisco - Napa Valley - Yosemite National Park - Monterey (Self Drive), USA Vacations, Build Custom Vacation Packages with Airfare, best vacation deals, online bookings. Get off at El Cerrito del Norte Station and transfer to the number 29 Redwood Park and Ride Vine Bus, which will take you up to Napa. Napa Valley comprises several regions, and the notable wine places are Napa, Calistoga, St. Helena, Rutherford, Oakville, and Yountville. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Distance: 195 mi / 314 km Time:4-5 hours Take I-580 east to I-205 east to Highway 120 east (Manteca) or Highway 140 east (Merced) into Yosemite National Park. Ride Amtrak to Yosemite to avoid traffic, travel sustainably and enter the park for free. Share this San Francisco to Yosemite road trip with your friends: Where is a good place to stop approximately halfway between between San Francisco and Yosemite? Today we will gather in San Francisco. This is one of the most dramatic scenic drives in California. You can get from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park in around 3 to 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the two most conventional routes cover 165 and 200 miles, respectively. We will alert you when your requested tour becomes available! Yosemite has three giant sequoia groves within the park boundaries. The 34-acre property features a main home, guest house and studio all centered around a generous-sized pool and elevated terraces. Napa Valley tours & tour packages to San Francisco, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone, Antelope Canyon. Many companies also offer Napa Valley tours from San Francisco, some with side trips to Muir Woods or other places. But consider taking a beat and doing the San Francisco to Yosemite road trip at a slower pace. Downtown Napa is 50 miles from San Francisco, but Napa Valley stretches beyond just the city of Napa. Happy trails! Please note that the Tioga Pass doesnt get plowed and is closed in the winter. A fabulous place to be explored in its own right, it's also a base to the Californian wine region Napa, and an epic drive from Yosemite National Park and the Big Sur. Yosemite & Napa Valley. Please post your review to earn 100 points. While wine has been growing there since the nineteenth century (and Prohibition didn't help), premium wine production only started in the 1960s, and it only really took off in the 80s and 90s. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-46729650', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');the B&B industry seem to have F-I-N-A-L-L-Y gotten THAT fixed with TA. Park your car in a Yosemite gateway town and take the YARTS bus into Yosemite Valley. . Nowadays, B&Bs seem to be mostly listed on TripAdvisor under B&Bs -- not so much under Specialty Lodging any longer. The fastest way to get from SF to Yosemite is out I580 through Tracy, connecting with Highway 120 in Manteca. Hot Tip: Do you need a rental car for your San Francisco to Yosemite road trip? If you can still hold your alcohol for one more tasting before returning to San Francisco, you can make a quick stop in Napa to visit Darioush. 1. To do a trip to Yosemite-- wow that is 8 plus hours of driving and too little time to actually see the amazing valley. On arrival in San Francisco you will make your own way into the city and check into your hotel for one night. Muir woods is a 30 mins drive from SF and you leave SF early see it for an hour or two and drive to Napa.