A visit to Napa Valley can feel like pure magic—and getting there doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you’re flying in, rolling up by train, gliding across the Bay on a ferry, or road-tripping with friends, you’ve got plenty of easy (and fun) ways to arrive in wine country.
This updated guide breaks down the best airports near Napa Valley, plus car-free options like the San Francisco Bay Ferry to Vallejo, Amtrak + bus connections, and the iconic Napa Valley Wine Train—so you can spend less time logistics-ing and more time sipping.
What’s the best way to travel to Napa Valley?
For most visitors, the smoothest plan is:
- Fly into SFO or OAK, then
- Drive, rideshare, or book a car service to Napa (especially if you’ll be tasting).
If you’d like a more scenic, “vacation starts now” arrival, a top favorite is:
- SFO → BART → San Francisco Ferry Building → SF Bay Ferry to Vallejo → VINE Transit/ride share to Napa.
And if you want an experience inside Napa that doubles as transportation:
- The Napa Valley Wine Train is a classic splurge (and yes—it’s still operating year-round).
Best airports to fly into near Napa Valley
Unless you’re local (or arriving by private aircraft), Napa trips usually start with a flight into one of these nearby airports. The “best” airport depends on what you value most: fewest crowds, lowest fares, easiest drive, or best international routes.
1) Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) – Santa Rosa
If you love small airports, quick curb-to-gate moments, and minimal chaos, STS is a sweet option—especially for West Coast travelers. It offers nonstop commercial routes on select airlines (routes change seasonally), and it’s a comfortable starting point for a relaxed drive into wine country. Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport
Best for: Simplicity, short lines, low-stress travel days
Plan from STS to Napa: rental car, rideshare, or pre-booked car service
2) Oakland International Airport (OAK)
OAK is often a favorite for value and ease—especially if you’re flying a budget-friendly route and want an airport that’s typically simpler to navigate than SFO.
Quick note: Oakland has been branding itself as “Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport” in recent announcements/press materials (while the airport code stays OAK).
Best for: Good fares, smaller-airport feel (for a major metro), East Bay convenience
Plan from OAK to Napa: rental car, rideshare, private car service
3) San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
If you’re coming from Europe, Asia, or anywhere international, SFO is usually your best bet for flight options. It can be busy, but it offers the most flexibility—especially if you want to combine public transit + ferry for a scenic arrival.
Best for: International travel, maximum flight choices, car-free options
Plan from SFO to Napa: drive/car service, or BART + ferry + VINE (details below) Vine Transit
4) Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
SMF is a fantastic “work smarter, not harder” move—often less hectic than Bay Area airports and a straightforward drive to Napa. If your flight lands late, Sacramento can also be an easy overnight before heading to wine country the next morning.
Best for: Avoiding Bay Area traffic patterns, simpler airport experience
Plan from SMF to Napa: rental car, rideshare, car service
5) Mineta San José International Airport (SJC)
SJC can be a good option if your flight pricing works out or if you’re already spending time in Silicon Valley. It’s also known for tech-forward touches—including a set of robot customer-service agents introduced at the airport. San José Mineta International Airport
And yes—Access Point, the tech-themed lounge/bar concept mentioned in older Napa travel guides, has appeared on SJC terminal directories (concessions can change, so consider it a “fun if you spot it” bonus).
Best for: Silicon Valley trips, certain regional routes, alternate airfare deals
Plan from SJC to Napa: rental car, rideshare, car service
Getting from the airport to Napa Valley
Option A: Rent a car (most flexible)
If you want maximum freedom—especially if you’re staying outside downtown Napa or planning to bounce between towns (Yountville → St. Helena → Calistoga)—a rental car can be convenient.
But: Napa tastings + driving can be a risky combo. If you’re doing more than one tasting in a day, strongly consider pairing a rental car with a designated driver or switching to rideshare/car service for tasting days.
Option B: Rideshare or private car service (easiest for tasting trips)
For couples, friend groups, or anyone planning to taste wine right away, rideshare and private car services are often the least stressful option. You’ll pay more than driving yourself, but you also get:
- no parking puzzles
- no navigation fatigue
- no “who’s staying sober?” debates
Option C: Go car-free with the San Francisco Bay Ferry (scenic + fun)
San Francisco → Vallejo Ferry (SF Bay Ferry)
If you love the idea of turning the journey into part of the vacation, the San Francisco Bay Ferry to Vallejo is a genuinely great move. The Vallejo route runs daily and is widely used as a gateway toward Napa/Solano destinations.
How it works (popular route from SFO):
- SFO → BART (toward downtown SF)
- Exit near the Embarcadero/Ferry Building
- Take the SF Bay Ferry to Vallejo
- From Vallejo, continue to Napa via VINE Transit or rideshare
Connecting Vallejo → Napa (public transit)
- VINE Transit Route 11 connects with the Vallejo Ferry Terminal (7 days/week) and can take you onward toward Napa. Vine Transit
Tip: Ferry schedules can shift seasonally, so always check the current timetable before you lock plans. San Francisco Bay Ferry
Option D: Train + bus connections (surprisingly workable)
Amtrak to Napa (via bus stop / connector)
Napa doesn’t have a classic big train station like a major city, but Amtrak does list Napa, CA (NAP) as a curbside bus stop at the Soscol Gateway Transit Center—useful for building an itinerary that combines rail segments and connecting service. Amtrak
If you like the idea of minimal driving, you can also mix:
- Amtrak/Capitol Corridor to a nearby station +
- a bus connection or rideshare into Napa
This approach can be especially appealing if you’re already traveling within Northern California.
Napa Valley Wine Train: a “transportation + experience” classic
If you want your transportation to feel like a celebration, the Napa Valley Wine Train is one of the most iconic things you can do in the region. The train operates year-round and offers multiple experiences that combine scenery, food, wine, and a rolling time-capsule vibe. Napa Valley Wine Train
Good to know:
- Many experiences depart from and return to Napa
- Ride lengths and inclusions vary (some are quick scenic rides; others include longer excursions and winery visits)
- It’s best booked in advance—especially on weekends and holidays
FAQ: Napa Valley travel questions
1) How much does it cost to go to Napa Valley?
Costs vary wildly based on season and travel style. Your big buckets are:
- flights (depends on origin and timing)
- lodging (usually the biggest line item)
- tastings/tours (can add up quickly)
- transportation (rental car vs car service vs tours)
- meals (from casual tacos to Michelin-star splurges)
If you’re building a budget, start with lodging + tastings, then work outward.
2) How much are tolls from SFO to Napa?
This depends on your route. If you cross the Golden Gate Bridge, remember: the toll is collected southbound only (so driving north toward Napa via the Golden Gate is toll-free; coming back south can be tolled).
As of the latest posted rates (effective July 1, 2025), 2-axle vehicles/motorcycles pay:
- $9.75 (FasTrak)
- $10.00 (License Plate Account / One-Time Payment)
- $10.75 (Toll Invoice)
There are no cash toll booths. If you’re visiting, a One-Time Payment can be made within 48 hours after crossing (or set up in advance). 511
Quick “still open?” check (updated)
The following transportation options mentioned in this post are currently operating/active:
- San Francisco Bay Ferry – Vallejo route: year-round service (daily).
- VINE Transit connections (Vallejo Ferry Terminal ↔ Napa): Route 11 connection listed as active.
- Napa Valley Wine Train: operating year-round with active experiences listed. Napa Valley Wine Train
Vacation-Napa.com is your trusted source for expert advice on Napa Valley travel. Our team of travel enthusiasts provides reliable information and insider tips to help you plan a memorable trip.