The biggest hub in the Napa Valley, ever-popular Napa is an ideal base for exploring the best of one of the world’s most famous wine regions. Although perhaps not as pretty as its smaller neighbours, Napa does offer a wonderful range of accommodation options — including everything from charming B&Bs to chic hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets — and the surrounding countryside is spectacular. Many of the best places to stay in Napa are clustered downtown, close to heaps of terrific restaurants and wine tasting rooms.

Whether you’re a keen foodie or a seasoned wine aficionado, Napa will delight with its abundance of trendy eateries, hole-in-the-wall bars and markets brimming with fresh Californian produce. Sample top locally grown fare at the Oxbow Public Market, savour a wine tasting at Vintner's Collective Napa Valley and tour some of the 400 nearby wineries, journeying between them by bicycle, by car or on horseback.

Active travellers can enjoy hot air balloon rides and helicopter trips, long treks and biking, or kayaking, fishing and boat excursions. There are some excellent golf courses in the area, as well as tennis courts, well-equipped gyms and restorative spas.

Napa itself is an intriguing historic town, best explored through a guided city walking tour. Kick back at iconic spots like the Blue Note Napa, an upscale jazz club dating back to 1879, or nab a table at a hip and happening new restaurant for an evening to remember. Nights in Napa have an appealing buzz for couples or groups of friends. For a more tranquil, romantic trip, you’ll find intimate inns aplenty on our list of the best places to stay in Napa.

The Best Places to Stay in Napa

For a Central B&B

• Inn on Randolph has been beautifully renovated into an indulgent B&B with a selection of cottages and suites. Think light, airy spaces clad in soothing hues, with fireplaces and modern bathrooms. Two-course gluten-free breakfasts are excellent. Adult only and and very romantic.
• The Napa Inn features 14 individually decorated rooms in two converted Victorian townhouses close to downtown Napa. Expect traditional interiors, top-notch massages, breakfasts on the garden patio and evening wine receptions. Charming.
• Churchill Manor is a glitzy, Gilded Age building with opulent, antique-filled interiors. Romantic rooms have four-poster beds, claw foot tubs and glittering chandeliers. Unwind on the manicured lawns or in the library. An ideal B&B for history buffs.
• White House Inn is set in an 1886-built mansion, surrounded by two acres of gardens. Pick this place for the large outdoor pool, comfortable, contemporary bedrooms and small onsite spa. Gourmet breakfasts and evening appetisers are a nice touch. Great for exploring Napa on foot.
• Blackbird Inn is a boutique B&B in Napa, with cosy rooms — some with balconies and fireplaces — set across two buildings. Close to the town's many restaurants and tasting rooms, the inn also offers big buffet breakfasts, afternoon hors d'oeuvres and freshly baked cookies. For old-school indulgence.
• Cedar Gables Inn prides itself on capturing the charm of the Arts & Crafts era, with nine inviting guestrooms in a historic mansion. For lovers of traditional style.

For a Chic Hotel

• Archer Hotel is an elegant property in downtown Napa. Expect crisp, contemporary interiors with big cosy beds and huge rain showers. The hotel's bar and steakhouse are popular with both locals and visitors, whilst the rooftop pool and gym are a serious highlight. Swish & ideal for exploring.
• River Terrace Inn is a 144-room hotel in the heart of Napa. Spacious rooms and suites face the Napa River, there's a 24-hour gym, in-room massages and heaps of activities. The trendy restaurant and bar are great for fun group trips. Families and business travellers are also welcome. A smart, central hotel.
• Andaz Napa promises a sleek luxury experience in downtown Napa. Savour innovative cocktails, Napa Valley wines and delicious American cuisine at the restaurant, before retreating to slick, understated rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offering impressive views. For families or couples.
• SENZA Hotel sits on two acres of vine-covered grounds, with sophisticated rooms and suites fit for romantic couples, families or groups travelling together. Highlights include the swimming pool, complimentary wine tastings, restorative massages and the fitness centre. Gather around the fire in the evenings for the full wine country experience.

For Active Travellers

• The Carneros Inn has been transformed from a large farm into a collection of modern cottages, rooms and suites. With three pools, hot tubs, complimentary bicycles, art classes, cheese-making, horse riding and helicopter trips, this is a top choice for an active trip as a couple or with family and friends. The 3,000 square foot fitness centre and bocce ball courts are fantastic.
• Napa River Inn boasts a beautiful waterfront location in the historic Napa Mill buildings. Pick this place for its opulent guestrooms, and the proximity to heaps of the area's best shopping, wine tasting and live music — all of which are in the same building. A lively base for active explorers eager to see the best of Napa town and the surrounding vineyards. The team can organise all manner of activities.

For a Tranquil Escape

• Stahlecker House is an owner-run inn on Napa Creek, set within an acre of grounds. Laidback and traditional, the house has five romantic rooms and suites, well-suited to couples looking for a tranquil retreat.
• Milliken Creek Inn has 11 newly renovated guestrooms with contemporary white-on-white decor and private decks with peaceful river views. Breakfasts are delivered to your room, and there are wine and cheese tasting options available. Relaxing and romantic.
• Candlelight Inn sits in a secluded spot on the banks of Napa Creek, in a 1929 Tudor revival building. There's a lovely swimming pool and gardens, as well as a light-filled dining room for breakfasts. Choose from nine characterful rooms and suites, some of which have their own living areas. Big bathtubs are ideal for unwinding.
• The Cottages of Napa Valley are nestled under leafy trees, with options for cosy couples or small groups of friends. An idyllic hideaway with fresh pastries brought to your door each morning, crackling fires to sit around in the evenings, and heaps of privacy. Absolute bliss.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Napa?

• Fly to Charles M. Schulz - Sonoma County Airport or to San Francisco International Airport, both just an hour away from Napa. Journey to Napa by car or shuttle.
• California is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between June and September for the warmest weather, with temperatures peaking at around 22°C. Harvest season is especially busy, so check your dates and book well in advance.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in St Helena.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in California.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Napa