Overview
Itinerary
From the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean to Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe to Napa Valley, the scenery, history, and culture of northern California is unparalleled. Your tour opens in Monterey, a seaside city with a rich history and gorgeous scenery. As travelers' arrival times vary greatly, we have no group activities planned during the day. Stay: Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa (2 Nights)
The morning is yours to relax or explore this charming city independently. Perhaps you'll visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium or walk along Monterey's Path of History – a self-guided tour of the city's historic landmarks.
This afternoon, the scenery of your dreams comes alive as you travel along the famed 17-Mile Drive to Carmel. See the Lone Cypress Tree, Seal Rock, and prestigious Pebble Beach Golf Course before relaxing over dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
Travel northeast toward California's Central Valley to Modesto, your base for visiting Yosemite and home for two nights. While Modesto is a city, it has a small-town atmosphere. Once you get there, visit a family-owned olive oil producer for an informative presentation, olive oil tasting, and lunch.
Afterwards, meet a local farmer and visit an almond orchard.
Tonight, sit down with your fellow travelers for dinner and continue to savor those local flavors. (B/L/D) Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel (2 Nights)
Dramatic waterfalls to soaring granite peaks, Yosemite will leave you in awe. Enjoy a scenic drive to the gates of the national park, where you'll travel by coach through Yosemite's unrivaled landscapes with an expert guide. Natural wonders abound as you stand before El Capitan, and take in breathtaking vistas including Half Dome, Tunnel View and Yosemite Falls. (B)
Arrive in Sacramento, enjoying time on your own for lunch in Old Sacramento – a historic Gold Rush-era neighborhood filled with over 60 restored buildings, wooden sidewalks, and antique gas lamps. Then, it's your choice! Visit the California State Railroad Museum and explore the detailed exhibits with a guide -OR- peruse a collection of Californian art and European master drawings on a guided tour of the Crocker Art Museum. Dinner is included tonight at a local restaurant. (B/D) Stay: Hyatt Regency (2 Nights)
Travel over the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the resort town of Lake Tahoe. Board a classic yacht-style vessel for a narrated cruise of Lake Tahoe's pristine waters. Discover the history of the area and explore the enclosed and open-air decks for ideal places to snap photos of the dynamic landscape and breathe in the fresh air. (B)
The iconic rolling vineyards of Napa Valley welcome you today. Tour the grounds of a vineyard while learning about the wine-making process before enjoying a private tasting and a delicious farewell lunch. Raise a glass of locally produced wine and toast to your California adventure.
Tonight, enjoy an evening to explore San Francisco as you please. (B/L) Stay: Hotel Zoe Fisherman's Wharf
Your tour comes to a close today, leaving you with many pleasant memories. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Marvel at the views along scenic 17-Mile Drive from Monterey to Carmel.
- Meet a local farmer and visit an almond orchard in Central Valley.
- Enjoy a scenic cruise to the green and blue waters of Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe.
- Take a coach tour through awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park.
- Visit a family-owned olive oil producer for lunch and a tasting.
- Sample local vintages during a winery tour and tasting in Napa Valley.
- Expertly crafted itineraries
- 4-star+ accommodation
- Skilled and engaging tour managers
- Expert local guides with insider knowledge
- Attraction entrance fees
- Many meals full of local flavour
- Unparalleled sightseeing
- Enriching cultural experiences
- Comfortable on-tour transportation
- Hotel-to-hotel baggage handling
- Plus, access to Wi-Fi hotspots on tour
- You're a leisurely traveller. You like to discover the energy of a new place, but typically take it easy. You can handle at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk for 15-30 minutes at a time with little difficulty.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Classic tours are for those who want to see the sights, taste the cuisine and experience the world. Read more
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Collette Worldwide (2025-26)
Dates & Pricing
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Collette. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
