Travel Budget for Sonoma Visit Sonoma on a Budget or Travel in Style

Sonoma, California, United States of America

Sonoma is a relaxing county known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Sonoma and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, enjoying the nightlife, or relaxing on the beaches.

How much does it cost to travel to Sonoma?

You should plan to spend around $260 per day on your vacation in Sonoma. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $96 on meals
  • $134 on local transportation
  • $185 on hotels

A one week trip to Sonoma for two people costs, on average, $3,640. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $260
  • One Week Per person
    $1,820
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,640
  • One Month Per person
    $7,800
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,640
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $7,280
  • One Month For a couple
    $15,600
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Sonoma cost?

A one week trip to Sonoma usually costs around $1,820 for one person and $3,640 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Sonoma on average costs around $3,640 for one person and $7,280 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Sonoma will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Sonoma on average costs around $7,800 for one person and $15,600 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Sonoma expensive to visit?

Sonoma is a terrific county that captivates many with its charm, appealing to a wide range of travel styles and budgets. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.

Sonoma can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.

On average, budget travelers spend $114 per day, mid-range travelers spend $260 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $497 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Sonoma.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Sonoma is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Denali National Park or Gainesville.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Sonoma Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Sonoma?

The average Sonoma trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Sonoma travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Sonoma cost?

Sonoma on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$40 $93 $177
Local Transportation 1 $59 $134 $257
Food 2 $42 $96 $184
Entertainment 1 $7.19 $16 $31
Alcohol 2 $9-27 $21-62 $40-119

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Sonoma, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.

What Defines a Budget Traveler?

You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $114 per day that backpackers typically manage.

Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.

The culinary scene is a major highlight for those visiting Sonoma, but budget travelers often eat street food or cook for themselves in hostels, which can mean missing out on delicious local dishes.

So, are you average?

If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Sonoma. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $260 per person, per day.

In Sonoma, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Inn at Sonoma A Four Sisters Inn is a great choice for families, and El Dorado Hotel is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Sonoma.

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

If your ideal trip includes every luxury and top-tier service, be ready to budget around $497 per day. A stay at nicer hotels, meals at prestigious restaurants, fancy excursions, and getting around the county with taxis or private drivers will cost you more.

Accommodation Budget in Sonoma

Sonoma offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $517, but during peak summer or fall season, they can average $965. Prices range from $199 to $4,885, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Sonoma for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $185. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $93 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $93
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $185

Hotels in Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Sonoma? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Sonoma

The average hotel room price in Sonoma based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $517 in the low season and $965 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Sonoma include:

  • El Dorado Hotel starting at $264
  • El Pueblo Inn starting at $229
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Sonoma

In this county, you can find a number of resorts available. You might be able to find a place that offers meals or at least breakfast, and many have restaurants onsite.

Traveling during the shoulder or low season, instead of summer or fall, can save you money on accommodations and spare you the heavy tourist crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Sonoma

Unfortunately, Sonoma does not provide a solid public transit network. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Unfortunately, getting around the county on foot can be quite challenging. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (poor)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (poor)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $134 per person, per day, on local transportation in Sonoma. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Sonoma is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $134

Transportation Tips

Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.



Flights to Sonoma
How much does it cost to go to Sonoma? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Sonoma
The price of renting a car in Sonoma will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Sonoma

You won't want to overlook the world-class cuisine in Sonoma. Take the time to dine at local eateries and indulge in their unique specialties. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Sonoma can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Sonoma is $96 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $96

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Sonoma is around $96 ($96) per person, with previous travelers spending from $42 to $184. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Sonoma are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $10 to $29
  • Lunch: $14 to $39
  • Dinner: $29 to $67
  • Coffee: $8
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $14

Sonoma is all about world class dining, farm to table restaurants, and gourmet bistros. The town of Sonoma has a number of great options including Portuguese tapas and local farm to table options. For five star experiences head to Healdsburg with its upscale atmosphere and award winning restaurants. Healdsburg also has a farmers market that's held twice weekly, or you can grab cheeses and fruits at the Oakville Grocery and enjoy a picnic with a view.

Food & Dining Tips

Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.

Making a picnic is a fantastic way to save money and enjoy the views. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up fresh goodies, and find a charming park or scenic area to eat your meal.

Stay hydrated with a water bottle instead of purchasing drinks everywhere. It's also great for the environment.

Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Sonoma

The allure of Sonoma is undeniable, especially since it offers food, romance, nightlife, and resorts.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Sonoma typically cost an average of $16 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $16

Sonoma is all about beautiful landscapes and local wineries. Below are a few of the more notable wineries in the area.

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards - A family-owned winery that highlights the unique terrain of the area. It has impressive views and a mission-style tasting room.

Landmark Vineyards - In the community of Kenwood, this winery produces pinot noir and chardonnay.

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery - Has a grand and stately, Italian-style tasting room. Famous for its fume blanc and Tuscan-style red wines.

DeLoach Vineyards - Produces high quality pinot noir, chardonnay, and zinfandel wines.

Iron Horse Vineyards - A famous family-owned winery that's known for its sparkling wines.

Scribe Winery - Produces pinot noir, sylvaner, and chardonnay.

Chateau St. Jean - European-style chateau that has beautiful grounds and nice picnic areas.

Robert Young Estate - Offers visits to the Alexander Valley ranch house, The Scion House, and guided tastings.

La Crema Estate at Saralee's Vineyard - Known for its pinot noir and chardonnay wines.

Jordan Winery - A beautiful ivy-covered chateau.



Countless activities are available to visitors in Sonoma. Wine tours, walking tours, cycling tours, and even horseback riding are all popular. Other unique activities include cooking classes, hot air balloon rides, and visiting any of the many festivals that the area hosts annually.

Sightseeing Tips

Beaches:
Lots of folks head to Sonoma just to kick back at the beach. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Hiking:
The hiking paths in the vicinity of Sonoma are superb. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Shopping:
You won't want to miss out on the shopping here. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Sonoma. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries for $340 details
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch for $126 details
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch for $125 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Sonoma

In Sonoma, the nightlife is always buzzing with activity, and visitors delight in spending their nights at the local bars, clubs, and parties. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $41 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Sonoma per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $41
Nightlife Tips

Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.

When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Sonoma. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Sonoma Food & Wine Tour for $255 details

Recommended


Budgeting and Travel Tips for Sonoma

  • In peak season during summer or fall, expect to see higher prices and an influx of visitors in the county. To save some cash and avoid the crowds, think about visiting during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Sonoma offers a vast selection of prices for various services, including accommodations, dining, and entertainment. To save some cash, consider shopping around, booking early, and taking advantage of complimentary activities.
  • Traveling at a slower pace can help you save money and truly appreciate the beauty around you. Overloading your itinerary with activities can lead to excessive spending. However, taking it easy and enjoying the moment usually results in a lighter wallet.

Budgeting Challenges

  • In Sonoma, public transport options are quite limited. You might consider renting a car or scheduling some form of transportation in advance, such as a tour. However, be aware that this may impact your budget elsewhere.
  • Sonoma isn't a major hub for hostels, so if you're expecting to stay in a cheap dorm, you might need to rethink your plans. Opting for a budget hotel or an apartment rental could be a smarter choice.
Traveling in Sonoma
Sonoma Sonoma, California

When people say Sonoma, they are often referring to the region's wine country, but in fact, Sonoma is a county, a valley, and a town. The county covers 1,768 square miles and is more spread out than nearby Napa. There are more than 30 cities and towns in the county and 425 wineries with tasting rooms. The county also borders the Pacific Ocean, and the beautiful 55 mile stretch of coastline is rugged and dramatic.

Sonoma Valley is found in the southeastern part of the county. It is famous for its rich winemaking history, with the most popular wine variety in the area being Zinfandel.

The City of Sonoma is found in Sonoma Valley. It's a quaint town with a main square that has tasting rooms and restaurants.



Neighborhoods & Around

There are a number of towns spread throughout Sonoma County.

The City of Sonoma is perhaps the most recognizable given its name. There's a quaint town square with tasting rooms and restaurants. The traditional architecture highlights the area's history and a visit to Bartholomew Memorial Park teaches you all about the history.

Healdsburg is another town with a beautiful town square. There are a number of tasting rooms, boutiques, and fine dining restaurants in the town. Healdsburg offers luxury at its finest so you can expect a classy and upscale experience in this town.

Guerneville is technically located in the Russian River Valley. This town is all about the natural setting amid the redwoods. The town has a rustic vibe that's a bit more casual than other parts of Sonoma.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.