First Time Guide to Napa Valley
Curated By
Gianna Quattrini
SHARE
![Icon [object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-copy-url.9b3e4dc0.svg?w=16&q=90){kind=icon}
![Icon [object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-check.1bfe605d.svg?w=15&q=90){kind=icon}
Napa Valley
Yountville
Active Travel
Adventure Travel
Outdoors
Sightseeing
Shopping
Curator’s statement
Napa is, of course, known for its wine, but it also offers amazing food, culture, wellness and adventure, too. The mild winters give visitors the chance to enjoy it while it's quiet. Fall shows off beautiful colors and foliage, and in the spring and summer there are beautiful wildflowers. Whether staying in Yountville, St. Helena or Napa, there's a place for everyone no matter your taste.
The Fora Difference
Book with Gianna to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-travel-perks.9512b274.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-recommendations.3b21b22c.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-inside-knowledge.1cb7ecbe.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay In Napa Valley
Unlock perks by contacting Gianna to book your trip.
Things to do In Napa Valley
Hot air balloon rides- a common and adventurous way to experience Napa’s beauty!
Bike tours- self-guided or with a hired guide on regular or e-bikes.
Golf- Napa is a premier golf destination with beautiful courses.
Hiking- visit one of the local preserves or state parks that are full of redwoods or beautiful lakes.
Napa River- hire a gondola or go boating, kayaking or paddle boarding on the Napa river.
Wineries- there are hundreds of options in Napa. Let me know what wines you like and I can point you in the right direction.
Spa and wellness - if you’re ready to unwind after lots of eating and drinking, there are countless spa therapy options.
Napa Valley Wine Train- if you're a train enthusiast and are looking to experience the vineyards by train, this is a fun alternative.
Places to eat & drink In Napa Valley
Oxbow Market- fun indoor market right beside the river featuring a wide array of local food vendors.
Model Bakery- artisanal bakery serving breakfast and lunch.
La taberna- delicious spanish tapas.
Oenotri- pizza and Southern Italian fare in a fun setting.
French Laundry- Thomas Keller’s iconic farmhouse prefix. If you’re celebrating something special, this is not to be missed.
Charter Oak Restaurant- seasonal, family-style Californian fare.
Bouchon Bistro- classic French bistro.
Rutherford Grill or R+D Kitchen- if you find yourself in Rutherford of Yountville, these Hillstone restaurant group eateries serve fantastic American classics.
Some of my favorite wineries include: Sinegal, Quintessa, Stags Leap, Cliff Lede and Promontory. Reservations needed.
Need to Know
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Ann Tan's guide, Ultimate Guide to Napa Valley.
Travel Advisor
Gianna Quattrini
Get in touch with Gianna
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Gianna within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Napa Valley.