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Home » destinations » United States of America » California » Riviera Travel Grand Tour of California & the Golden West
The journey explores three world-class Californian cities, starting in San Francisco and progressing to the star-studded Los Angeles and laid-back San Diego. Along the way, indulge in the delicious wines of Napa Valley and explore charming coastal towns overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The adventure includes a visit to one of the world’s greatest national parks, Yosemite, showcasing its craggy mountains, picturesque lakes, and aromatic forests. Finish the tour with a 3-night stay in Las Vegas.
Day 1: Fly to San Francisco
Fly to San Francisco from the UK, arriving in either the late afternoon or early evening. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, before having the rest of the evening to spend as you wish
Day 2: San Francisco
This morning, take a brief tour of the city’s sights, seeing cosmopolitan Union Square and the beautiful Golden Gate Park. After that, take a coach up to Twin Peaks for views of the bay and city. After the tour, you’ve got the rest of the day to explore independently.
Day 3: Napa Valley and Sonoma
Today, visit two of the state’s wine regions. Starting in the famous Nappa Valley, you’ll explore the area before heading to a local winery for a tasting. Then, head to Sonoma, less well-known but home to California’s oldest premium winery. You’ll get the chance to try more varieties of wine at another local winery.
Day 4: Sonora
Head inland towards the Sierra Nevada foothills. On the way, you’ll get the chance to stop in the Calaveras National Park, known for its giant sequoias, which are some of the world’s largest trees. After some time taking in the natural surroundings, continue to the city of Sonora, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 5: Yosemite National Park
This morning, enter Yosemite National Park, where you’ll encounter mighty granite peaks and fragrant forests. The Valley here is home to some of the park’s best known features, including Yosemite Falls and El Capitan, and the Tunnel View.
Day 6: Monterey
Travel back to the coast today as you head to Monterey. On arrival, take a walking tour of the city, learning about its history and taking in the coastal views. During the tour, you’ll visit Fisherman’s Wharf, home to a market and a herd of seals.
Day 7: Carmel-by-the-sea
Spend the morning driving along 17 Mile Drive, one of the world’s most scenic roads. Travel through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove as you head to Carmel. On arrival in Carmel, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.
Day 8: San Luis Obispo
Head south today, stopping in Pismo Beach along the central coast to enjoy the views from the pier. Later on, continue to San Luis Obispo, a charming city known for its architecture, farmers markets and restaurants.
Day 9: Los Angeles
Start today’s journey with a brief stop in Santa Barbara, known as the ‘American Riviera’ before heading to the beach town of Santa Monica to visit its iconic pier. End the day in Venice Beach, with free time to stroll along the 2-mile boardwalk and take in the sights.
Day 10: Los Angeles
Explore the city on a guided tour in the morning, seeing some of the most famous landmarks including the Dolby Theatre, the Walk of Fame and Sunset Strip. The afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 11: San Diego
Drive along the coast to San Diego, where on arrival you’ll take an orientation tour of the city. Explore the Gaslamp District and travel along the Bay to see the waterfront. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 12: Free day in San Diego
Enjoy a whole day at leisure to explore San Diego.
Day 13: Las Vegas
Say goodbye to San Diego and drive to Las Vegas, where you’ll stay for the next three days. On arrival, the rest of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring the city.
Day 14: Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon
Drive out of the city this morning and head to Hoover Dam. Walking across the top of the dam to enjoy sweeping views of the lake and surrounding area. Next, head to the Grand Canyon, visiting the West Rim and enjoying breathtaking vistas of the Canyon and Colorado River. Return to Las Vegas and enjoy another evening at leisure.
Day 15: Free day in Las Vegas
Spend a full day at leisure in Las Vegas, taking advantage of the many sights and activities on offer.
Day 16: Depart
Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.
Day 17: Arrive Home
Arrive back in the UK
Hotel Riu Plaza, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
This hotel is close to the iconic Pier 39 and features an outdoor pool, gym and restaurant. Rooms feature a seating area, tv, mini fridge, air conditioning and wi-fi
Best Western Plus Sonora Oaks, Sonora
Located near to Yosemite National Park, this hotel has an outdoor pool, jacuzzi and a fitness centre. The rooms feature a tv, tea & coffee making facilities, a fridge and a desk/seating area.
Hampton Inn, Monterey
The rooms at this hotel are airconditioned and feature a seating area, a tv, a mini fridge, and tea & coffee making facilities.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham, San Luis Obispo
Rooms here feature a TV, a desk and seating area, mini fridge, tea and coffee-making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Courtyard Los Angeles Westside, Los Angeles
This hotel is close to Culver City’s Westside shopping centre and a short drive from major attractions. Rooms feature a tv, in-room safe, tea and coffee-making facilities, a desk and seating area, a hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Best Western Plus Bayside Inn, San Diego
This hotel is in walking distance of the bay. All of the rooms feature a small balcony and have air-conditioning, a hairdryer, an iron and ironing board, complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV, writing desk, microwave, fridge and coffee-maker.
Luxor Hotel, Las Vegas
This pyramid shaped hotel features a host of swimming pools, a spa, fitness centre and seven restaurants. The rooms feature a tv, safe, seating area, air conditioning and a hairdryer
Fact File
Visa Information
Along with a valid passport, UK citizens must have an ESTA visa waiver or a visa in order to travel to the USA. Full details of how and when to apply will be sent with your booking confirmation.
*All transfer times listed here are approximate and dependent on traffic.
Arrival airport | First hotel location | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
San Francisco | San Francisco | 30 minutes |
Final hotel location | Departure airport | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
Las Vegas | Las Vegas | 30 minutes |
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