Sacramento offers a surprisingly rich scene for wine lovers. While most visitors come for its farm-to-table food scene and historic sites, the city’s proximity to top wine regions makes it a great base for exploring California’s wine country. We especially like the Sacramento: Old Vine Express Train Ride with Wine Tasting for its blend of scenic relaxation and wine education — it’s a memorable way to enjoy West Sacramento’s vineyards without leaving the comfort of a vintage train. Plus, the train ride experience offers a sophisticated taste of local wines paired with canapés, all while taking in stunning views.
For those who prefer a personalized adventure, the Apple Hill Wine Tasting Tours and Placerville Wine Tasting Tours allow you to craft your own day, visiting your favorite wineries and enjoying the flexibility to customize your itinerary. And for a full-day immersion into the renowned Napa Valley, the Napa Wine Tour from Sacramento is a premium choice—perfect for wine enthusiasts ready to explore California’s most celebrated vineyards with expert guidance.
1. Sacramento: Old Vine Express Train Ride with Wine Tasting
At number one, this scenic train ride combines the charm of vintage rail travel with a tasting of five local wines, plus a sparkling wine welcoming glass. The 2-hour journey winds through West Sacramento’s wine region, giving you a relaxed way to learn about the area’s old vine vineyards, some dating back over a century. The train features dedicated tables, so you can sit back and enjoy the views while sampling wines from knowledgeable guides who share insights into each pour.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of luxury and education. The flight of five wines includes seasonal canapés that complement the tasting experience, making it feel more like a fine dining event on rails. The ride is particularly ideal for visitors who want a hassle-free, all-in-one experience that combines transportation, tasting, and learning. With a high rating of 4.7/5 from six reviews, it shows strong appreciation for its unique format and quality.
The $174 per person price includes everything—making it excellent value for a memorable afternoon. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenic views, and wine without the fuss of visiting multiple wineries themselves.
Bottom Line: The train ride offers a relaxed, guided introduction to West Sacramento’s wine scene. It’s a perfect choice if you prefer comfort, education, and a touch of nostalgia.
2. Apple Hill Wine Tasting Tours And Placerville wine tasting tours
Number two on our list is for those who love the idea of customizing their day. These private tours allow you to pick your wineries and set your own pace, ranging from four to ten hours. This flexibility is what makes the tour special — you could visit a handful of boutique wineries or focus on a specific region like Placerville or Apple Hill. The tour includes pickup from your hotel or home, making logistics simple.
While there are no reviews currently, the tailored nature of this experience appeals to travelers who want control over their itinerary. Whether you’re a beginner eager to sample a range of wines or a seasoned connoisseur wanting to explore specific vineyards, this tour can adapt to your preferences. The prices start at $169 per person, which seems reasonable given the level of customization and private service involved.
This tour is best suited for groups with specific wine interests or for those who want a more private, intimate experience. It’s ideal for visitors who appreciate flexibility and personal attention, as well as for groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: For a highly personalized wine outing that adapts to your preferences, this private tour is hard to beat. It offers flexibility and comfort for those who prefer a customized approach.
$169.00 per person
3. Napa Wine Tour from Sacramento
Last but not least, the Napa Wine Tour from Sacramento is designed for those ready to spend a full day exploring California’s most famous wine region. Priced at $375 per person, this tour covers roughly nine to ten hours, including visits to three distinctive wineries. The tour is carefully curated, with your guide handling all logistics, booking tastings, and recommending lunch spots.
What makes this tour standout is its attention to detail. The guide customizes the experience based on your preferences, whether you’re into bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling wines. The wineries are carefully selected to provide variety, and the itinerary balances tasting with opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenery. Past participants note that the guide’s extensive knowledge and ease of planning make the trip smooth and enjoyable.
The tour is perfect for serious wine lovers who want a hassle-free, high-quality experience in Napa. It’s a longer day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and eager to learn about the region’s top wineries.
Bottom Line: The Napa tour is a premium, expertly arranged day trip for connoisseurs wanting to experience multiple wineries without the hassle of self-planning.
$375.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour for You
Picking the right wine tour depends on your budget, time available, and what kind of experience you want. If you prefer a relaxing, all-in-one event, the Old Vine Express train ride offers a memorable, scenic introduction. For a tailored, private day exploring specific wineries, the Apple Hill/Placerville private tour will give you flexibility and personal attention. If you’re eager to spend a full day in Napa’s top vineyards, the Napa Wine Tour from Sacramento provides a comprehensive, expert-guided experience.
Think about whether you want a guided group experience or a customized private trip. Also consider your comfort with driving or organizing your own itinerary—these tours handle the logistics for you. Booking early is recommended, especially for the Napa trip or private tours, to secure your preferred dates.
To sum it up, Sacramento offers a range of wine-touring options to suit different tastes and budgets. The scenic train ride is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, educational outing. The private custom tour suits groups with specific preferences, and the full-day Napa experience is ideal for serious enthusiasts. No matter which you choose, each promises a memorable taste of California’s world-class wine scene. Don’t wait—book early and raise a glass to your next adventure.