Best of California

Day 1

On arrival at San Francisco International Airport, your airport transfer takes you to your hotel for the first two nights. Early evening, meet up with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception including drinks and a light informal meal.

Overnight: Hotel Omni San Francisco

Day 2

This morning take in the sights of the city - the bustling activity in Union Square, famous cable cars, the stately Victorian homes of Alamo Square and beautiful Golden Gate Park. After a free afternoon, join your Tour Director and fellow passengers for an informative walking tour through Chinatown, including stops at various shops and landmarks, followed by an authentic Chinese banquet at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Hotel Omni San Francisco (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 3

Drive to the Napa Valley - California’s premier wine country. Here you will visit the Benzinger Family Winery for a private tram tour, where you will learn about  biodynamic and organic farming, and the history of the winery. In the Tasting Room you will enjoy an exclusive tasting, and you can admire the lovely views over the terraced vineyards. Later in the afternoon browse the quaint shops in Sonoma's historic plaza. Evening at leisure

Overnight: The Fairmont Sonoma Missions Inn & Spa (Breakfast included)

Day 4

Travel through California’s Gold Country and into the Sierra Nevada Mountains to Yosemite National Park, one of the first wilderness parks in the United States. Explore the valley floor with its spectacular waterfalls, the imposing rock formations of El Capitan and Half Dome and abundant wildlife. Receive the red carpet treatment tonight with newly refurbished rooms at your hotel, located inside the park, close to North America’s highest waterfall.

Overnight: Yosemite Valley Lodge (Breakfast included)

Day 5

Drive down the Sierras and through the fertile San Joaquin Valley, the breadbasket of California. Purchase local fresh fruit at a historic fruit stand en route to picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea. Browse the art galleries and shops on Ocean Avenue, before a relaxing drive across the Monterey Peninsula and along the scenic 17-Mile Drive. Pass the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links and multi-million dollar mansions before arriving in charming Monterey, California’s former capital until 1849. This evening you have a dine around option, where you can choose from a spectacular selection of local restaurants in Monterey.

Overnight: Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 6

Head south to La Cuesta Encantada, ‘The Enchanted Hill’ high above the ocean at San Simeon, for a guided tour of Hearst Castle - the grandiose estate of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. Continue south through the vineyards of the Central Coast to the resort town of Santa Barbara, often billed as the ‘American Riviera’. After an orientation tour of this seaside paradise, check into your beach-front hotel.

Overnight: The Fess Parker A Doubletree by Hilton Resort, Oceanfront Room (Breakfast included)

Day 7

Visit the beautiful Mission Santa Barbara and learn about the chain of 21 California missions along California’s El Camino Real. Then journey along spectacular Santa Monica Bay, passing through glamorous Malibu on your way to Santa Monica. Take time to stroll along the popular Third Street Promenade. Visit the J. Paul Getty Museum with its world-class collection of Western art set against a backdrop of dramatic architecture, tranquil gardens and breathtaking views. Continue on to your luxurious hotel at L.A. LIVE, the city’s newest and one-of-a-kind entertainment destination.

Overnight: Hotel JW Marriott Los Angeles LA LIVE (Breakfast included)

Day 8

In the morning enjoy a sightseeing tour, view Grauman's Chinese Theatre and stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Experience the glitz and glam of Hollywood on a private tour of the Kodak Theater, home to the Academy Awards ceremony. Spend the afternoon at the historic LA Farmers Market with a local exper to take you through a collection of restaurants and shops for tasting, before having time to explore on your own. In the evening enjoy a Celebration Dinner of American comfort classics with a Southern Twist at Engine Co 28 - a renovated firehouse from 1912

Overnight: Hotel JW Marriott Los Angeles LA LIVE (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Day 9: Depart Los Angeles

Your California tour comes to an end with a departure transfer to Los Angeles International Airport. Or perhaps extend your holiday with a few extra days in LA or even add another tour - the Enchanting Canyonlands tour fits perfectly for a longer west coast USA experience.

(Breakfast included)