Day 1: San Francisco, California - Tour Begins

Join Collette Vacations in exploring Northern California. From its most popular cities to fertile valleys and historic gold rush towns, many hidden treasures await. Your tour begins in San Francisco, the beautiful “City by the Bay.” Tonight, take in a fabulous view of San Francisco. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant on Fisherman’s Wharf overlooking the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Day 2: San Francisco

This morning, enjoy a leisurely walk from your hotel to Pier 39 for a delightful breakfast. Next, join a local expert for a guided city tour which highlights Fisherman’s Wharf, the famous cable cars, the Golden Gate Bridge and the view of the city from the imposing Twin Peaks. The afternoon is yours to explore this beautiful city independently. Hop on a cable car or enjoy the sights at Fisherman’s Wharf…the opportunities are endless.

Day 3: San Francisco - Sonora

Enjoy a relaxing morning in San Francisco before traveling east through California’s central valley to Sonora. In its Gold Rush heyday, Sonora was the cosmopolitan city of 1848, attracting people from all over the world.

Day 4: Sonora - Yosemite - Sonora

A scenic drive brings you into the awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park. Your tour through Yosemite’s amazing waterfalls, unique rock formations, deep valleys, Alpine meadows and pristine wilderness will leave you absolutely awestruck.

Day 5: Sonora - Jamestown - Sacramento

Travel to Jamestown to visit Railtown, an 1897 state historic park featuring turn-of-the-century locomotives and railcars. A popular spot for movie makers, High Noon, The Virginian and Petticoat Junction were filmed here. Arrive in Sacramento for a panoramic tour including the historic Governor’s Mansion, where Ronald Reagan once resided, and the State Capitol building. Then continue through Old Sacramento’s historical district with over 60 restored gold rush-era buildings, wooden sidewalks, cobblestone streets and antique gas lamps for a glimpse at what life was like when thousands of “49ers” flocked here during the California Gold Rush. You’ll have plenty of time to visit the unique shops. This evening, it’s Diner’s Choice…tonight your dinner is included and you’ll choose the perfect spot from a “menu” of Sacramento’s great restaurants.

Day 6: Sacramento - Lake Tahoe - Sacramento

Travel over the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the resort gambling town of Lake Tahoe. Upon arrival, enjoy a narrated cruise of spectacular Lake Tahoe aboard the M. S. Dixie II paddlewheeler. Later, make a quick visit to a nearby casino to try your luck or explore the shops before returning to Sacramento.

Day 7: Sacramento - Sonoma - Santa Rosa

A visit to Sacramento is never complete without a stop at the California State Railroad Museum, considered to be one of the best railroad museums in the United States. Enjoy the detailed exhibits and the many historical stories told by your museum guide. Later, take the short drive to Sonoma County, home to one of California’s most fertile wine-growing regions. Special stops will be made at a local winery for a tour and tasting and at an olive oil press for the wonderful opportunity to sample many types of fresh olive oil.

Day 8: Santa Rosa - Napa - Santa Rosa

A unique highlight awaits as you travel through California’s treasured wine vineyards and arrive in Napa, one of the world’s premier destinations. Breathtaking views abound. Sample several different wines before boarding the elegant Napa Valley Wine Train. Once aboard, sit back and relax as the incredible scenery, famous vineyards, and delicious meal complete the luxurious atmosphere. Later this afternoon, relax prior to an excellent farewell dinner - complete with great local wine to cap off your California adventure.

Day 9: Santa Rosa - Tour Ends