20 Romantic Napa Valley Honeymoon Hotels

Located in the culinary capital of the United States with more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than anywhere else in North America, the Napa Valley region is unquestionably a highly favored hotspot for honeymooners tempted by fine food and wine. 

Beyond the glass, however, this Northern California destination is where culture, wellness, and exploration converge creating an unforgettable start for those who have recently said “cheers!” to a life together. We turned to local enthusiast and tourism expert, Linsey Gallagher, to learn more about how Napa Valley serves the ideal mix of honeymoon bliss. 

Meet the Expert

Linsey Gallagher is president and CEO of Visit Napa Valley where she shares her love of the area with visitors and residents alike. A resident of Napa, Linsey and her family take full advantage of all the rich experiences that Napa Valley has to offer.

“Napa Valley is an ideal place for a new couple to pamper themselves after the big day,” Gallagher says. Of course, you can fill your days with flowing wine, but Gallagher recommends taking some time to explore the extensive range of activities throughout the valley. “We’re known for our wines and fine restaurants, but Napa Valley is also home to plenty of outdoor activities, relaxing spas, culture, and nightlife, making it easy to create a perfect itinerary as unique as each couple.”

Average Cost of a Napa Valley Honeymoon 

Many of the biggest names in luxury resorts and hotels call the valley home, but there are a number of smaller boutique inns and limited-service hotel options in the area as well to fit a variety of budgets. As with most destinations, Napa Valley accommodation rates range throughout the year, but Gallagher shares that winter and early spring will usually have more affordable rates and wider availability. 

While the spectrum for accommodation rates may be wide and ultimately depends on how high-end you intend to go, there are several essential experiences that the Visit Napa Valley president suggests you budget for. 

What to Do in Napa Valley

The area is famous around the world for its highly sought-after wines and if you’re planning to honeymoon in Napa, chances are you’re keen to imbibe the local juice. “Pick one or two wine experiences to visit per day to get the most of your tasting experiences,” Gallagher advises. “You will need a reservation for each visit, and plan approximately $40 to $150+ per person per tasting depending upon the depth of experience the winery offers.”

 She continues, “I always suggest that couples plan a balloon ride over Napa Valley. It’s iconic and romantic. Another unique experience is the Napa Valley Wine Train which combines wine experiences and fine dining with a one-of-a-kind backdrop.” Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides offers rides for two with a sparkling wine brunch for approximately $2,250 per couple or group rides starting at $300 per person. The Wine Train transports couples back to an elegant era for $250 to $600 per person.

Best Time to Book a Napa Valley Honeymoon 

According to Gallagher, Napa Valley is truly a four-season destination with each time of year bringing its own unique beauty. “We have a moderate Mediterranean climate that provides near-perfect weather year-round,” she says. However, with tourist season peaking in the fall (harvest season), she notes that winter and spring can be an especially good time to enjoy a slower pace in the valley. “Regardless of the time of year, days are warm and evenings are cool, so a jacket or wrap is a must on any packing list.”

Where to Stay in Napa Valley

The flavors of the region’s delectable wines might be fleeting, but you’ll leave with a collection of memories that will linger for a lifetime. Pour yourself a glass of Cabernet and check out 20 of the best places to stay for a Napa Valley honeymoon.

The current outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. As the situation remains fluid, we’ll be sharing tips and stories from industry experts to give you of-the-moment advice and help you navigate wedding planning today. For the most up-to-date guidelines and latest on travel restrictions and requirements, check the CDC and U.S. Department of State websites.