Sonoma Wine Country: The Perfect Weekend Getaway from San Francisco

Rose on display in the tasting room at Viansa Winery just outside of downtown Sonoma

Just an hour north of San Francisco and tucked one valley over from Napa, Sonoma is a world-class destination for wine lovers. It’s the perfect add-on to a Bay Area trip, offering beautiful vineyards, welcoming tasting rooms, and a slower pace than its more famous neighbor.

On two separate trips, I explored a variety of wineries—some elegant and historic (when visiting with a wine aficionado - my sister!), others small and family-run (when traveling on my own) and gathered recommendations that will give you plenty of options for your own visit.

Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a full two-day stay, Sonoma delivers an unforgettable wine country experience without the Napa crowds.

Places to stay

If you can splurge on a home rental, this is a fabulous and comfortable way to do the Sonoma and Napa wine tasting areas. And if several couples share costs, this can actually be a more affordable option than high priced hotels nearby. My sister chose the St. Helena Farmhouse to host a group for her 50th birthday and, with gorgeous views, an infinity pool, chic furnishings, and thoughtfully designed spaces to meet and connect, this is definitely a property we recommend.

The highly rated Cottage Inn and Spa with expansive grounds to explore is a good choice if you’re with a family or group, as is the Sonoma Bungalows which offer privacy and more space. Ledson Hotel for historic charm is right in the center of town across from the square. The Lodge at Sonoma is the only nearby Marriott and, while we had a positive experience here years ago, sounds like the property now has mixed reviews, with the main feedback being a need for updated facilities.

Where to taste

For outstanding food pairings with your wine, check out the Collector’s Experience seated tasting at Hamel, where each serving of wine is paired with a delicious gourmet snack.

If you love sparkling wine, Gloria Ferrer is the place for you. To taste both wine and food, try the culinary journey (or the even more reasonably priced three-course culinary experience). We had delicious food, great wine, and lovely views on the patio. Ask if it’s a buggy time of year and, if so, opt for an indoor table - flying insects put a damper on this experience even though the wine and food were terrific.

Visit Repris at Moon Mountain Vineyard for a unique and informative experience if you appreciate Bordeaux and Rhône style wines. Request to book a 90-minute tour of the vineyard and 18,000 square feet of natural rock caves, followed by a seated tasting in a romantic setting.

Chateau St. Jean is a lovely outdoor tasting experience - opt for the Estate Lunch, which comes with a bottle of wine, reserved picnic table and your choice of sandwich or salad lunch.

For sweeping views from a lovely patio (or even a cabana that overlooks the vineyard), a great boutique for souvenirs, and convenient picnic platters of cheese, charcuterie, and fruit, stop at Viansa.

Things to do

Blend your own bottle of wine at Meadowcraft Winery. This experience includes a cheese plate and of course the bottle of wine that you blended, complete with your own label.

Aside from wine tasting, downtown Sonoma has shops, cafes, and a Central Park that often features live music or arts and crafts markets.

Getting around

On one trip to Sonoma we rented a car - this ensures flexibility and freedom to change plans, but means you have to manage your wine intake more carefully than when on a tour with a driver. Take the hassle out of visiting wine country through a tour. A few options: This private tour has door to door service and visits both Sonoma and Napa wineries. Alternatively this small group tour offers visits to three wineries, a tour guide, and transport in a small shuttle. We’re trying this San Francisco to Sonoma tour next time to take advantage of a built-in stop at the Golden Gate Bridge and the seaside village of Sausalito, along with three new wineries we haven’t yet tried.