A Wine Lover’s 12-Hour Itinerary For Yountville, California

Let me tell you about Yountville, the tiny-but-mighty town in Napa Valley that stole my heart (and the hearts of many others). It’s chic, cozy, and packed with so much charm you’ll wonder how it fits into such a small footprint. Whether you’re dipping your toe into the California wine country for the first time or just looking for a perfect day trip, Yountville delivers big time on vino and vibes. Here’s how I spent one perfect day here—and how you can, too.

Day Trip Itinerary

9:00 AM: Coffee & Pastries at Bouchon Bakery

The day has to start with coffee and pastries, and there’s no better spot than Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Bakery. It’s a tiny place, but the pastry cases are packed with everything from buttery croissants to perfectly cooked tarts. We grabbed a scone, a macaron and a cappuccino, then settled into one of the outdoor benches—because this adorable bakery is standing-room only.

Quick Tip: The line might be long, but don’t let that scare you. It moves quickly, and it’s a rite of passage in Yountville (plus, the payoff is so worth it). Oh, and while you’re there, grab a loaf of bread—they sell the same ones served at their sister restaurant, Bouchon Bistro, right next door.

10:30 AM – All Aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train

All Aboard! This might just be one of the coolest wine country experiences that I’ve ever had—a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train. It’s a journey that takes you through miles of vineyards while sipping champagne, and enjoying a four-course meal. 

There are lots of different experience options, including some where you get to stop at wineries along the route. We opted for the Vista Dome Lunch, a 36-mile round trip and three-hour ride packed with 360-degree views of the valley. But you can also wander to other cars, including one with open windows that is amazing for those peek-out-the-window photos. 

I’ll admit, I was skeptical about the food because, you know, train dining. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. There were plenty of choices with the prix fixe meal, but my roasted beet salad with goat cheese and pistachios was perfect, and so were the citrusy salmon with capers and beef carpaccio with truffle aioli.

3:00 PM – Wine + Bacon Tasting at Priest Ranch

Okay, let’s talk about wine and bacon. I know, I thought it sounded like a weird combo too, but it’s actually quite a genius pairing. At Priest Ranch, you’ll sip about six wines (my favorite was the bold and rich Double Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon) while tasting four different types of bacon. Yes, bacon. The mango mustard bacon was hands-down my favorite (sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of smoky).

First, you sip the wine, then you take a bite of bacon, and then you sip again. It’s like a science experiment, but way more fun (and delicious!). And if bacon’s not your thing, no worries—you can still enjoy a glass of wine with one of their yummy cheese or charcuterie boards.

4:00 PM – Stroll the Yountville Art Walk

After indulging all day, you’ll definitely need a little fresh air, and the Yountville Art Walk is just the ticket. This outdoor gallery has over 30 sculptures scattered around downtown, and each one has a little plaque with a QR code so you can learn more about it (because, don’t we all love a good fun fact?).

My favorite was The Chef—a quirky piece that fits so perfectly in the Yountville vibe. As you wander, you’ll not only see some incredible art, but you’ll also pass by cute shops like Kollar Chocolates (their handcrafted truffles are too pretty to eat… but I ate them anyway) and Alchemy Works, where you’ll find stylish gifts and home goods.

If you want a map, grab one at the Yountville Welcome Center, or just pull it up on your phone here—it’s easy! Don’t forget there’s an audio tour part too.

5:30 PM – Pre-Dinner Drink

By this point, you’ve earned a cocktail (or another glass of wine). There’s plenty of choices, but here are a couple of the favorites. Head to The Restaurant at North Block, where the bar is trendy without being intimidating. If you can, time your visit for happy hour—it’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself without breaking the bank. 

Or go to the uber trendy The Restaurant at RH Yountville, If you’ve ever been to a Restoration Hardware furniture store you can only imagine what their restaurant might look like (and how much it would cost $$$).

6:30 PM – Dinner at Bottega

Dinner at Bottega is this itinerary’s grand finale, and you totally deserve it. Created by the late Michael Chiarello, this spot is made for foodies. Bottega means “artist’s workshop” in Italian, so think of traditional family recipes with a California twist, all served up in a rustic setting. You can dine outside on their cozy patio (complete with stone fireplaces!) or soak in the ambiance inside, with soft leather chairs, Murano glass chandeliers, and a vibe that makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

I kicked things off with their Brussels sprout salad and some seriously tender octopus. For the main, I went all in on the Brodetto ai Frutti di Mare, a rich, flavorful seafood stew that was so amazing I immediately went home and Googled how to make it. 

Make it an Overnighter at Napa Valley Lodge

In case, after a fun wine-filled day like this you don’t want to head home so soon, turn your day trip into an overnighter at the Napa Valley Lodge. This is where we stayed and it was the perfect place to wind down, especially with the fireplace in our room!

It’s  just minutes away from everything you’ll want to do in Yountville, but you may not want to leave. The grounds alone are dreamy, with their relaxing fountains, warm fire pits , a sparkling pool calling your name, and plenty of cozy spots to lounge with a glass of wine (or two). Oh, and did I mention the bocce ball court? Because a little friendly competition pairs perfectly with a day of wine tasting

Yountville Day Trip Itinerary Video

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