Enjoy our beautiful road trip through Northern California. You’ll take in all of the area’s top sights and attractions, before finishing on the golden sandy beaches of Santa Barbara.
The best time to travel on our Northern California multi-centre is from the end of March to the beginning of October. This allows you to experience the warm, dry months of the end of spring, summer and beginning of Autumn.
Begin your multi-centre in San Francisco. Take in the city’s top attractions, including the food markets, Alcatraz, the sunbathing sea lions on Pier 39 and the Golden Gate Bridge. Next, take the one hour drive through beautiful farmlands and rolling landscapes to Napa Valley. This is the USA’s most famous winelands and it’s full of emerald hillsides which are home to pretty vineyards. Take the opportunity to sample some of the country’s best bottles, as well as delicious local produce.
Next on your Northern California multi-centre holiday is Lake Tahoe. In the winter the area is known for its spectacular frozen landscapes, while the summer brings water sports and glittering clear waters. Be sure to venture into the hills above the lake for breath taking views. Then head into Yosemite National Park. Here you’ll find waterfalls, hiking trails and plenty of opportunities to explore.
Finish your multi-centre in Santa Barbara. This traditional town is known for its gorgeous Spanish architecture and is where many of America’s oldest families live. The golden sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing, and there are some glorious farmlands surrounding the town.

Trip Highlights
- See the Golden Gate Bridge, snoozing sea lions and steep streets of San Francisco
- Taste some incredible bottles of wines in the rolling green hills of Napa Valley
- Explore Northern California’s natural beauty in Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe
- Finish in Santa Barbara, where you’ll relax on the beach and soak in the charm
Start your Journey
San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the USA’s most iconic cities. It’s full of a lively, trendy culture and has plenty on offer. Spend your days taking the tram up its steep streets, pausing the admire the tall houses and interesting architecture.
Foodies will find plenty for them in San Francisco. The city’s known for its diverse cultures and huge range of cuisines. Brunch is a must in one of the trendy eateries, and you’ll also find Michelin starred dining and farmers markets.
When it comes to sightseeing you’ll be spoilt for choice. Head to Pier 39 to see the sea lions as they take a break on the shore. Take the boat trip over to Alcatraz and take in the spectacular views of the city before learning about its fascinating history. Finish with a cycle ride over the Golden Gate Bridge – one of the USA’s most recognisable landmarks.
Napa Valley
Napa Valley multi-centres allow you to explore one of the USA’s most famous wine regions. It’s home to a fascinating culture as the rich and famous flock to its luscious valleys, rolling hills and emerald vineyards.
Spend your days on the wine tram, which will take you to some of the region’s finest vineyards. Stop off at whichever takes your fancy as you learn the history of the area aboard the tram. Many of the labels have been here for years and will immerse you in the culture of the area with a tour. Learn how the grapes are grown, harvested and turned into wine by the experts.
When it comes to dining there are some truly spectacular options in Napa Valley. Perfectly pair a rich red, light sparkling bottle or crisp white wine with some of the finest local produce from the surrounding farmlands.
Lake Tahoe
At the centre of Tahoe is, unsurprisingly, Lake Tahoe. This glittering body of water is fed from the snows from the beautiful mountains above. It’s the perfect stop off for those wanting to enjoy an active holiday. Or, you can simply soak in the beautiful landscapes which surround you.
With 300 days of sunshine every year, you can spend your Lake Tahoe holidays unwinding by the lake, on its gorgeous white sands. Or explore each of the little towns which can be found peppered along the lake’s shores. In each you’ll find little boutiques, perfect for gifts and souvenirs, as well as a selection of restaurants and bars.
In the summer we recommend enjoying some of the lake activities. Try sailing or kayaking, or simply head underwater and enjoy the clear waters and a chance to cool down in the lake. For the best views, head along the hiking trails in the mountains above or try mountain biking or rock climbing.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is home to some of the USA’s most beautiful landscapes. You’ll find towering waterfalls, shy wildlife, craggy cliffs and emerald valleys. It’s the ideal place for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in some of the USA’s wildest scenery.
Spend your days exploring the park before heading back to your lodge for a well deserved delicious dinner. Begin with Yosemite Valley, where you’ll find some of the best views in the park from Tunnel View. Look out over Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan mountain and granite Half Dome.
Keen hikers will enjoy the climbing trails which take you to Yosemite Point. Explore on your own or book a ranger to take you through these incredible sites as you admire the fantastic views of the valleys below. You’ll love the Giant Redwood trees, the smell of the pines and glistening lakes.
For a different way to explore Yosemite we recommend heading to Tenaya Lake, where you can relax and watch the glittering waters. Alternatively, swim in the clear waters or take a kayaking trip and explore the lake.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a town full of charm and class. It’s known to be home to some of the USA’s oldest families and is surrounded by beautiful farmlands on one side and golden sandy beaches to the other.
This fascinating town is known for its spectacular architecture. You’ll find Spanish influences throughout the buildings, which are made from warm golden stones and adorned with climbing plants. Inside the buildings you’ll find little boutiques selling unknown designers, art galleries and excellent restaurants.
When it comes to dining the produce is fresh from the sea and the farms, offering a taste of Northern California at its best. Try the lobster, crab or seafood platters perfect paired with a bottle of Napa Valley’s finest wines.
Active visitors can take to the sea with sailing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. Or you could simply relax with a cocktail or cool beer as you take in the scene from Santa Barbara’s lively waterfront area.
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San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Yosemite and Napa Valley Multi Centre Holiday
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