Gabbi Hall
Influencers that travel to wine country conjure up images of chic bed and breakfasts overlooking rolling hills or modern resorts with pool-side food and beverage service. While it is ultra glamorous, it’s not easily attainable for your average millennial. *cough* me *cough* And yet, I was determined to go to Napa for my birthday when I moved back to the west coast. That’s when I got to planning an affordable(ish) trip to Napa.
Where to Stay in Napa
MOTEL 6 NAPA
The Motel 6 in Napa is not a five-star resort. But when you’re in Napa, you’re there for wine tasting–not hanging out in the hotel. It’s the perfect affordable accommodation option that’s close to downtown Napa and the surrounding vineyards. In the offseason, I’ve seen prices around $89 a night and when I was there in November, it was around $110. Split between friends it’s a great deal.
Bonus: There’s a Starbucks across the street and a Target down the road, where Whitney and I ended up with some wonderful faux fur outerwear.
Instagrammable Wineries in Napa
Based on my research, I figured we could realistically do 3-4 tastings in a day. This was the least affordable part of the trip, but definitely where we wanted to invest the money. One #treatyoself day of wine and food.
Inglenook Vineyard
Heritage Tasting: $45
From Inglenook: Guests enjoy a seated tasting of Estate wines, including our flagship wine Rubicon, paired with artisan cheese. Advance reservations strongly recommended.
Piazza Del Dotto
Poppers Tasting: $60
From Del Dotto: Our Poppers tasting experience is the perfect entry to Piazza Del Dotto. Guests will enjoy a selection of six Piazza wines paired with four savory, bite-sized treats from our chefs.
Chandon
Tasting: $20-$35
Domaine Carneros
Tastings: Varies
From Domain Carneros: Drink in spectacular lake and vineyard views from your private table on the terrace or in the salon. You’ll taste handcrafted sparkling and still wines, and savor local artisanal cheeses and other indulgences paired with your wines.
How to Get Around Napa
Getting a car to drive you between wineries is great if you have a larger group. The cost can be more than reasonable. For just two of us, it was easiest and most economically efficient to Uber.
Now, I had seen mixed reviews about using Uber in Napa because they weren’t widely available. We had no problem using Uber to get around wineries and out to dinner when we were drinking.
More Tips for Planning a Trip to Napa?
This was my first trip to Napa with many more to come if I get my way. So I’m curious. What are your favorite wineries? Where do you like to stay?
Until my next wine tasting, here goes nothing.
Thanks so much for this! I’ve wanted to go to Napa but heard it was pretty expensive for what it was. This is so helpful 🙂
Yeah, it can be really pricy! Some of the hotels were crazy, but Motel 6 was a great way to save and if you book in advance, Airbnb can be a great option.
Looks like you had an amazing time. I’d love to go to Napa one day!
It was amazing! If you love wine, it’s the perfect weekend getaway!
Now I want to go to napa !!
This is so nice! I’m always looking for where to go in Napa.
Happy to help! Have you been before? Where did you do?