9 days in San Francisco Bay Area & Sonoma County Itinerary

San Francisco is a top holiday destination featuring scenic beauty and great ethnic and cultural diversity.

On the 18th (Sat), learn about all things military at USS Hornet Museum, then visit a coastal fixture at Fort Point, and then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Grace Cathedral.

To find out how to plan a trip to San Francisco, use our trip itinerary maker.

Charlotte to San Francisco is an approximately 7-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. You'll gain 3 hours traveling from Charlotte to San Francisco due to the time zone difference. Expect somewhat warmer temperatures when traveling from Charlotte in January; daily highs in San Francisco reach 59°F and lows reach 46°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 18th (Sat) to allow enough time to drive to Sonoma.

Set in the heart of one of the United States' most esteemed wine-producing regions, just 45 minutes from San Francisco, Sonoma boasts colonial Mexican architecture, including a mission.

You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at General M.G. Vallejo Home and HALL Rutherford. Venture out of the city with trips to St. Helena (Prager Winery & Port Works, Tres Sabores Winery, & more), Oakville (Nickel & Nickel & Turnbull Wine Cellars) and Tomales Point Trail (in Point Reyes Station). The adventure continues: learn about winemaking at BobDog Winery.

For photos, other places to visit, traveler tips, and tourist information, read our Sonoma road trip tool .

Getting from San Francisco to Sonoma by car takes about 1.5 hours. Other options: take a bus; or do a combination of subway and bus. Traveling from San Francisco in January, plan for a bit cooler nights in Sonoma, with lows around 38°F. You will have some time to spend on the 25th (Sat) before leaving for home.