Sonoma
Trip to

Sonoma

21 picks

Sumptuous Sonoma romance with vineyards, spas, and Michelin-worthy meals

WeekendromanticRomanticRelaxedFoodie

Highlights

Sip world-class wines at architecturally stunning and historic Sonoma wineries.

Unwind together with thermal pools, couples treatments, and serene resort spas.

Dine at top-rated restaurants showcasing Sonoma’s seasonal local bounty.

Soak in golden-hour vistas over rolling hills and vine-covered valleys.

Stroll hand-in-hand past tasting rooms, boutiques, and historic buildings.

Where to Stay

2 picks

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
STAY

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

Luxury resort with geothermal-fed pools, a renowned spa, and elegant rooms and suites just outside Sonoma Plaza.[5]

The Lodge at Sonoma Resort, Autograph Collection
STAY

The Lodge at Sonoma Resort, Autograph Collection

Upscale resort with stylish rooms, cottages, a pool, spa, and on-site dining a short drive from Sonoma Plaza.[5]

Where to Eat

6 picks

The Girl & The Fig
EAT

The Girl & The Fig

Cozy French-inspired bistro on Sonoma Plaza; share the seasonal cheese and charcuterie plate, fig and arugula salad, and duck confit.

EAT

folktable Restaurant

Seasonal, chef-driven restaurant at Cornerstone Sonoma with garden views; think elevated California fare and local wines.

Valley Bar + Bottle
EAT

Valley Bar + Bottle

Stylish, ingredient-driven restaurant and natural wine bar near Sonoma Plaza; order a few shared small plates and let the staff choose a bottle.

El Dorado Kitchen
EAT

El Dorado Kitchen

Contemporary restaurant inside El Dorado Hotel on Sonoma Plaza, offering refined farm-to-table dishes and a lovely patio.

Cafe La Haye
EAT

Cafe La Haye

Intimate New American spot just off Sonoma Plaza; known for seasonal menus and a strong local wine list.

Lou's Luncheonette
EAT

Lou's Luncheonette

Upscale roadside-style spot near Sonoma serving fried chicken, sandwiches, and comfort food with a gourmet twist.

What to Do

8 picks

Buena Vista Winery
DO

Buena Vista Winery

Historic winery in a wooded setting just outside Sonoma; enjoy a seated tasting or cave experience with character and charm.

Gundlach Bundschu Winery
DO

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

Scenic, family-owned winery with expansive vineyard views and outdoor seating; often offers seated tastings and relaxed vibes.

Sonoma Plaza
DO

Sonoma Plaza

Historic central plaza ringed by tasting rooms, boutiques, galleries, and cafes; ideal for strolling and exploring.[4]

Cornerstone Sonoma
DO

Cornerstone Sonoma

Artful outdoor marketplace and garden space with shops, tasting rooms, and design-forward gardens.

DO

Private Wine Tour Pros – Sonoma Private Wine Tour

Arrange a customized private wine tour in a black car or SUV, with pickups in Sonoma and curated stops at boutique wineries.[3][4]

Scribe Winery
DO

Scribe Winery

Trendy winery set on a hillside with iconic valley views and relaxed, picnic-like tastings by reservation.

DO

Hot Air Balloon Ride over Sonoma (e.g., Sonoma Ballooning Adventures)

Early morning balloon flight over vineyards and rolling hills, typically including a post-flight toast.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa – Spa Access
DO

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa – Spa Access

Day access or treatments at the resort’s famous spa with geothermal-fed pools, relaxation areas, and a full treatment menu.[5]

Good to Know

5 picks

KNOW

Book Tastings Far Ahead

Reserve winery tastings and special experiences several weeks in advance, especially for popular or small boutique spots with limited seating.

KNOW

Hire a Private Driver

For full wine tasting days, use a private tour or driver service so you can relax, sip freely, and avoid parking and navigation hassles.[1][2][3][4]

KNOW

Pace Your Wine Days

Limit yourself to 3–4 winery visits per day with generous breaks and at least one substantial meal in between.

KNOW

Dress Wine-Country Chic

Opt for smart-casual outfits and comfortable shoes suitable for gravel paths and standing tastings, plus a layer for cool evenings.

KNOW

Ship or Hold Your Wine

Most wineries and shops can arrange shipping or safely hold purchases until the end of the day or trip.

Map

Map unavailable

Best For

Couples seeking romance and relaxationFood and wine lovers who want to splurgeLuxury travelers looking for boutique 5-star staysNewlyweds and anniversary celebrations

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