Best Places To Stay In Napa: From Budget To Luxury Options
Alright, wine lovers and fellow travelers, let’s get into one of our favorite topics: Napa Valley! First things first, Napa Valley, a home to some of the most popular wineries in the USA, isn’t just
Alright, wine lovers and fellow travelers, let’s get into one of our favorite topics: Napa Valley! First things first, Napa Valley, a home to some of the most popular wineries in the USA, isn’t just for people with a yacht-sized bank account. Sure, you can blow your entire year’s travel budget on a single night if you really want to (yes, I’m looking at you, $5,000-a-night resorts and famous Napa wineries!), but thankfully there are also plenty of options that give you the full Napa experience without making you sell your car and a house. And for those of you who do want to go all out, we’ve got some seriously good stays to recommend, too.
Now, if you’re like us and find yourself planning trips around food, wine, and a place to rest your head that’s as comfy as your favorite couch (but way more Instagram-worthy!), Napa should be at the top of your list. Here you’ll find almost every type of accommodation. From luxurious romantic getaways where you’ll be pampered to the point of feeling like royalty, to spots that leave room in your wallet for more wine tasting (a priority, right?) or winery stays with breathtaking panorama. So let’s get into it—here are our top picks for the best places to stay in Napa Valley, broken down into categories.
Best Places To Stay In Napa: From Budget To Luxury Options
Alright, enough of the small talk. Let’s get into what you’re really here for where to stay in Napa! We’ve organized our recommendations by categories that make the most sense, whether you’re after a budget-friendly stay, views, food, and pure pampering.
Best Budget Stay in Napa
Photo credit: Candlelight Inn Napa Valley
Napa is notoriously expensive. It’s one of those places where the price of a hotel room can make you gasp—and not in a good way. But we have a couple of great options that won’t leave you broke (though I can’t promise you won’t spend all your money on wine and food once you get there).
Our pick: Candlelight Inn Napa Valley
First on our list is the Candlelight Inn Napa Valley. It’s an elegant 1929 Tudor Revival B&B surrounded by redwood trees, and located in a quiet, residential area of Napa. This place has the kind of charm that makes you feel like you’ve just stumbled upon a secret treasure. If you’re looking for something affordable that still delivers that quintessential Napa experience, this is it.
A cozy, quaint room with classic décor—think four-poster beds, elegant wooden furniture, and floral wallpaper that gives off some serious “weekend at grandma’s cottage” vibes. In the best possible way, of course. Each morning, they serve a three-course breakfast. You’ll start with fresh fruit, move on to something like an herb frittata or lemon-ricotta pancakes, and finish with freshly baked pastries.
The inn itself feels super private and peaceful, with 11 rooms, so you never feel like you’re in the middle of a tourist hotspot. The property also has a lovely pool surrounded by lush gardens, which is the perfect place to relax after a day of wine tasting. Plus, it’s located 3 miles from the hiking trails at Alston Park and you can book a hot-air balloon ride or arrange a Napa Valley Wine Train ride.
Runner up: R INN NAPA
If B&Bs aren’t your thing, or you prefer something with a more modern, minimalistic feel, then R INN NAPA is another budget-friendly winner. Located right in the heart of downtown Napa, this urban boutique hotel in a converted historic building is sleek, stylish, and surprisingly affordable. What we love about R INN NAPA is that it feels fresh and contemporary—think high ceilings, modern art on the walls, and furniture that looks like it was plucked from a high-end design magazine. The vibe here is super laid-back, and the location is unbeatable. You can walk to tons of restaurants, tasting rooms, and shops, so it’s perfect if you’re planning to explore Napa on foot.
Accommodations include 5 loft suites, 10 stylish rooms off an open-air courtyard, and a freestanding bungalow. The rooms are compact but have everything you need, including really comfortable beds and beautifully designed bathrooms. The communal spaces are another big perk. It’s a great spot for a weekend getaway, especially if you’re looking to stay somewhere that feels a bit more “local” than the big-name resorts.
Best Stay in Napa for Fantastic Views
Photo credit: Alila Napa Valley
Napa Valley is all about the views. I mean, if you’re not waking up to a picture-perfect vineyard scene, are you even doing Napa right? Luckily, some places take the concept of “room with a view” to the next level. If jaw-dropping vistas are what you’re after, these two spots deliver in plenty.
Our pick: Alila Napa Valley
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Napa that’s got a serious “wow” factor, Alila Napa Valley with its 64 rooms is the spot. We’re talking panoramic vineyard views that will make you feel like you’re in a postcard. The hotel sits right on the edge of Beringer Vineyards, so no matter which way you look, it’s all rolling hills, grapevines, and stunning sunsets.
Each room comes with its own private terrace or balcony (of which some have outdoor fireplaces on the terraces), giving you a front-row seat to all that beauty. Plus, there’s a pool that seems to melt right into the vineyards. Speaking of which, they also offer complimentary wine tastings. Just a heads-up though, this is an adults-only hotel (18+), so it’s perfect for a peaceful, grown-up getaway.
The hotel is beautifully spread across multiple buildings, and the historic 1907 Georgian-style farmhouse is the heart of it all. This is where you’ll find the reception and the on-site restaurant, Acacia House, which is worth checking out if you’re into farm-to-table dining with a Napa twist. The design here is modern yet cozy, with a touch of old-world charm. Rooms are designed for comfort. You get luxury Italian linens, bespoke furnishings and floor-to-ceiling Italian marble spa-like bathrooms, with high-tech amenities. And if you’re into exploring, they have bikes available so you can cruise around St. Helena and check out the local wineries and shops.
Runner-up: Harvest Inn
Harvest Inn located one mile from St. Helena pops up as an excellent contender, especially if you’re after fantastic mountain views. This place is set on eight acres and offers 78 spacious, rustically decorated rooms that come with fireplaces and terraces. It has a charming, rustic vibe and beautiful views of the Mayacamas Mountains. It’s got this sort of storybook feel, with red-brick buildings and lots of lush greenery. The rooms are comfortable. Plus, it’s surrounded by vineyards, which—let’s be honest—is exactly what you came for, right? From 2015, Harvest Inn has a full-service restaurant, Harvest Table, under the name of celebrity Chef Charlie Palmer.
Best Napa Stay for Foodies
Photo credit: Meadowood Napa Valley
I’ll be honest—one of the main reasons we love Napa so much is the food. Between the farm-to-table dining scene, the Michelin-starred restaurants, and the endless opportunities for wine pairings, it’s a food lover’s dream come true. If you’re like us and you mostly arrange your vacations around where you’re going to eat, these two places are absolute musts.
Our pick: Meadowood Napa Valley
If you’re someone who plans your vacations around where to eat (we guilty!), then Meadowood Napa Valley, an estate spread over 250 acres of hilly oak forest, should be your first stop. Located in St. Helena, Meadowood is a sprawling luxury resort known for its Michelin-starred restaurant, The Restaurant at Meadowood (though, full disclosure, the restaurant was temporarily closed due to a fire in 2020, so check for updates). Even if it’s not open during your visit, the rest of the dining options here are outstanding, with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients.
Breakfasts at Meadowood are what mornings in Napa should always be—farm-fresh eggs, house-made pastries, and perfectly brewed coffee, all while overlooking the oak-filled hills. For lunch or dinner, The Grill serves up dishes that are hearty yet elegant, with everything from wood-fired pizzas to Wagyu beef. Beyond the food, Meadowood itself is a haven of relaxation, with rooms and cottages scattered throughout the lush property, offering privacy and comfort at every turn. The luxurious property features 85 suites, cottages, and lodges, all equipped with wood-burning stone fireplaces, private balconies, and California king or queen beds. Guests are welcome to explore the property’s four miles of hiking trails, two outdoor pools, tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, a championship croquet lawn, an extensive spa, and a fitness center offering free daily classes.
Runner-up: Auberge du Soleil
Auberge du Soleil, located in Rutherford, is another excellent choice for foodies. This luxury resort is home to one of the most well-known restaurants in Napa, with a focus on Mediterranean-inspired dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Auberge’s restaurant is a must-visit, especially for those who enjoy long, leisurely meals paired with impeccable wines. Oh, and the views? Yeah, they’re nothing short of magical, too. This place exudes elegance, and if you’re celebrating something special, looking for a getaway (or just want to treat yourself), it should be on your list.
Best Napa Winery Stay
Photo credit: Elusa Winery Hotel
For a true Napa experience, why not stay at a hotel that’s literally located within a winery? If you want to live and breathe the winery life (at least for a few days), these stays are as authentic as it gets.
Our pick: Elusa Winery Hotel
Located within the Four Seasons resort, Elusa Winery Hotel is a perfect blend of elegance and laid-back charm and a first-ever Four Seasons property, situated within a working winery. The whole vibe is relaxed yet refined, and it’s the kind of spot where you can really lose track of time in the best way possible.
The resort is located in the heart of Calistoga’s AVA, one of Napa’s most storied regions. You can join private winery tours and tastings, or, if you’re feeling fancy, indulge in their Cabernet and Caviar pairing. The tasting rooms are stunning—bright, airy spaces that invite you to relax and enjoy the wines in a natural and unhurried way. The resort offers a complete winery experience, including a mesmerizing barrel room and wine production space where guests are invited to explore and observe firsthand the wine production, storage, and wine aging processes. Elusa’s design blends rustic warmth with modern touches, creating luxurious yet relaxed rooms, each with its own terrace.
Runner up: Chateau de Vie
For a smaller, more intimate winery stay, check out Chateau de Vie in Calistoga. Vineyards surround this charming B&B, and the property feels like a private retreat. Set on a working vineyard, this charming bed and breakfast offers stunning views, morning coffee, and tea service delivered to your door, and a freshly prepared breakfast whenever you’re ready. Relax in the private garden Jacuzzi or take a dip in the 40ft vineyard lap pool. With estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon surrounding the property personalized concierge service will arrange all your wine tours and dinner reservations. PS. If you’re planning a trip to Calistoga, be sure to check out our article on the best vineyards in the area.
Best Napa Stay for Families
Photo credit: Carneros Resort and Spa
Napa might be famous for wine, but that doesn’t mean families can’t have an amazing time here too! If you’re planning a trip with kids or just want to bring the whole crew along, there are some fantastic family-friendly places to stay. These properties offer plenty of space, activities, and amenities to keep everyone entertained—even the little ones.
Our pick: Carneros Resort & Spa
Traveling with kids in tow? Carneros Resort & Spa is your go-to spot in Napa for a family vacation that’s just as fun for the adults as it is for the little ones. Carneros offers spacious, private cottages with individual outdoor spaces, so everyone can spread out and enjoy some breathing room. The resort has plenty of family-friendly amenities like bike rentals (great for exploring the surroundings), a family pool (in addition to an adults-only pool), and even in-room kitchens if you want to whip up your own meals. Plus, the Carneros Farmers Market is right nearby, where you can grab local ingredients for a DIY picnic. It’s a great way to introduce your kids to farm-to-table dining in the most casual, fun way possible. And while the kids are having fun, you can sneak away to the spa or the adults-only pool for some well-deserved R&R.
Runner up: Indian Springs, Calistoga
Indian Springs in Calistoga is another great family-friendly choice. This place has that Spanish-style resort with a charming, retro vibe, complete with a massive, mineral-rich pool and mud baths that are perfect for both kids and adults. It’s got that old-school, summer vacation feel, but with the added benefit of being in Napa. They also offer rustic American dining, lawn games and bikes, so there’s plenty to keep the kiddos entertained while you sneak off for a quick wine tasting.
Best Napa Stay for a Romantic Getaway
Photo credit: Poetry Inn Napa Valley
Looking for a romantic getaway and escape to Napa? If you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or just a quiet getaway with your significant other, Napa Valley is the perfect backdrop for romance. Think of intimate dinners, cozy fireplaces, and private terraces with vineyard views. These hotels offer the kind of luxury, privacy, and beauty that set the stage for an unforgettable experience with the one you love. PS. We also covered the topic of the best wineries for a romantic getaway in Napa extensively. Check that out too!
Our pick: Poetry Inn
If you’re looking for a secluded, luxurious Napa Valley escape, look no further than the Poetry Inn. Located in the iconic Stags Leap District, this adult-only guesthouse, offers just five spacious rooms—all named after famous poets. The vibe here is intimate, elegant, and totally serene. The inn’s name says it all—this place is pure romance.
The rooms are massive, starting at around 88m² and going up to a huge 135m². Each suite has a private terrace overlooking the vineyards, and the views are nothing short of breathtaking. As we mentioned, the rooms themselves are spacious, luxurious, and incredibly private, with fireplaces, soaking tubs, and beds so comfortable you’ll never want to leave. Oh, and did I mention the executive chef whips up a delicious complimentary breakfast every morning? We’re talking three courses, with locally sourced ingredients.
One of the best parts about Poetry Inn is the privacy—it’s tucked away behind a gated drive, so you truly feel like you’ve stepped into your own little world. The views alone are worth it, but the personal service really makes it shine. Feel free to ask concierge service to help you plan everything from wine tours to dinner reservations at nearby Yountville. In short, Poetry Inn is the kind of place where romance comes easy—perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons, or just because you need a romantic escape.
Runner up: Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection
Our runner-up is Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection. Stanly Ranch is a newer addition to Napa’s luxury hotel scene, and it’s quickly become one of our favorite spots. You’ve got all the high-end amenities you’d expect from an Auberge property—gorgeous rooms with private terraces, fire pits, excellent restaurant offers and a whole lot more—but it’s done in a way that feels totally down-to-earth. The design is farmhouse chic, with natural finishes that make the spaces feel warm, welcoming, and endlessly romantic. Perfect for your next getaway!
Best Napa Stay for Pampering, Spa, and Overall Experience
Photo credit: Bardessono Hotel and Spa
Sometimes, you just need to treat yourself—and Napa Valley is the place to do it. From world-class spas to luxurious suites, these hotels are all about pampering and relaxation. If you’re ready to indulge in a little self-care and spoil yourself, here are two of our favorite places to do just that in Napa.
Our pick: Bardessono Hotel and Spa
If you’re the type of traveler who combines luxury with sustainability, Bardessono, an eco-resort, in Napa Valley is where you need to be. Located in Yountville, this hotel is all about eco-luxury. From the moment you pull up, you’ll notice they’re serious about sustainability, with solar panels, geothermal wells, and organic cleaning products – all of which earned them that rare LEED Platinum certification. And yet, it doesn’t skimp on any indulgence. Think massive windows flooding your room with natural light, fireplaces for cozy evenings, and linens so soft they’ll make you rethink your bedding at home.
And if you’re a spa lover, you’ll want to block off plenty of time to indulge in their treatments. Their spa focuses on organic, natural ingredients, and their massages are some of the best we’ve ever had—honestly. If you’re feeling extra fancy, upgrade to a Steam Spa Suite with both indoor and outdoor showers (because why not?). The spa is another winner, offering everything from Thai massage to vinotherapy, and you can even get treatments right in your suite.
Beyond the spa, their onsite restaurant, Lucy, does “farm-to-table” right, using ingredients straight from their own garden. Lunch is a must – the Sonoma duck confit hash with a duck egg will fuel you up for a day of biking around wine country (free bikes provided!). Bardessono’s location is perfect for exploring other Yountville’s famed restaurants and wineries. It’s within walking distance of places like The French Laundry and Bouchon Bakery, so you won’t have to go far to experience the best Napa has to offer.
Runner up: Auberge du Soleil
Our second choice is Auberge du Soleil. Auberge du Soleil earns a spot on this list for its impeccable spa, food & wine pairing, and overall country retreat experience. This 50-room adults-only retreat feels intimate and romantic, surrounded by beautiful countryside and lush grounds. You’ve got a 7,000-square-foot spa, a gorgeous pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant with outstanding wine list. The rooms are cozy and luxurious, with exposed wood beams, big terraces, free minibar items, fireplaces and soaking tubs (in most of them!).
One of the best things about Auberge du Soleil is the variety of ways to enjoy it. You can stroll through the sculpture garden, picnic in their Parc de Soleil, or indulge in a romantic dinner at their famed restaurant. For the ultimate romantic experience, try the “Ultimate Indulgence” spa package with a candlelit bath, massage, and sparkling wine under the stars. Apart from being one of our favorite places, it’s definitely one of Napa’s most exclusive and romantic getaways.
FAQ about Where to Stay in Napa Valley
Final Thoughts
In short, we prepared all the pieces of information you need to start planning your trip and get ready to enjoy the scenic wineries and vineyards of Napa Valley!
