If you’re visiting Napa for the first time, Napa City is an ideal place to stay. Not only is it centrally located within the wine region and all its attractions, it is also filled with top hotels, bars, restaurants, and shops.
The refined St Helena, meanwhile, oozes the quintessential charm of California’s wine region and boasts some of its most covetable wineries. Although it’s much quieter than Napa City, its main street is lined with Michelin-star restaurants and many other upscale establishments.
Situated between St Helena and Napa City, the picture-perfect Yountville is perhaps the most exclusive area in the valley. From its resorts to its restaurants, everything here is refined and luxurious.
If you want to pair your wine with a touch of wellness, stay in the renowned spa destination of Calistoga, a few kilometres north of Napa City. Hot spring soaks and mud baths make a regular appearance on the spa menus in this nature-rich region.
Those on a budget may prefer the sound of American Canyon, a city just a few kilometres south of Napa itself. While accommodation here is a fraction more affordable than other Napa Valley areas, it is certainly not short of top wineries and scenic nature spots.
As the vineyards around Napa Valley are spread out, the best way to truly explore them is by car.