Highlights of Northern California

After included airport lounge access and a daytime flight, you'll arrive in San Francisco where you'll make your way to your city hotel, the excellent Argonaut in Fisherman's Wharf. Alternatively, an upgrade to the Sir Francis Drake pairs grand staircases and gilded ceilings with fine dining and a superb Powell Street location. Then, across two days, you'll have free time to explore on the the USA's true city greats. Hop on a cable car to Fisherman's Wharf, take a ferry to Alcatraz or explore Nob Hill, Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, home to Alamo Square's famous 'Painted Ladies', a brightly painted row of Victorian and Edwardian houses. 

Pick up your hire car and head inland to explore one of California's best-known wine regions, perhaps pausing for a tasting along the way. Often unfairly overshadowed by the big-name acts of its next-door neighbour, bucolic Sonoma, your home for a two-night stay, is an enticing, some say quieter, alternative to the more famous Napa Valley. Just like its sibling, however, Sonoma Valley features over 400 wineries, ranging from family-run boutiques to internationally regarded labels.

Alternatively, you could head further north and stay in the Napa Valley if you prefer – California's best-known wine region. If you decide to take this option, we particularly recommend the Napa Valley Wine Train Tour, in which you'll board the train in Napa for a three-course gourmet lunch among rolling green valleys before an included vineyard tour and wine tasting. 

California's charming state capital offers up a variety of exciting experiences, from white water rafting down the American River, to wine tasting in the up and coming vineyards of Amador County. Sacramento is the city that marks the original site of the famous nineteenth century gold rush, and panning for some elusive gold is still a popular activity for visitors today.

Stay: Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel (Superior)

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and is, in places, so clear that you can see up to 70 feet down into the water! Outdoor activities abound at this national treasure and the drive around the lake offers jaw-dropping scenery including spectacular Emerald Bay, one of the most photographed places in the US.

Stay: The Landing Resort & Spa, Lake Tahoe (Superior)

Ansel Adams has brought the cliffs and domes of Yosemite to many, but nothing compares to seeing them for yourself. Whether by bike, on foot or on horseback, you'll need your camera ready for the striking profile of Half Dome, the iconic monolith El Capitan and the drenching mists of Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in America.

Return your hire car in San Francisco in time for your flight home, arriving on day 12.