California Tours & Trips
Ever wanted to visit Santa Barbara, where history comes to life, or walk through Solvang's charming Danish-style streets, making you feel like you're in Europe? In San Francisco, cruise under the famous Golden Gate Bridge, where fog rolls through the bay. In Yosemite National Park, walk among giant sequoias and see waterfalls crashing down granite cliffs. Nature and city life collide in California.
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Betty • traveled in July, 2025
I was disappointed in Modesto. They gave 2 bottles of water for us three. Initially the desk clerk said they only give 2 complimentary bottled water for each room for 2 guests. When I told them we are 2 in the room he said the water was paid by the group. Then the AC was not working, when the Technician talk to the manager suggesting to move us to another room we overhears the manager on the phone was hesitant to move us then he agreed to move us. When we checked out the room it has only one full size bed for the three of us. We did not agree. He changed it another room again there was only one bed, a bigger bed, so again I did not like it. The technician called the manager again and was told that the sofa there is a bed. I had to get the technician assemble it for us as the coffee table is very heavy that I couldn't even push of pull it. Then the beddings and additional towel to make it for 3. We did not get to bed until almost 12MN. There realized why one of your previous travel customers made a comment that the hotel in Modesto is not good.
California Express - 3 Days - E
Ellen • traveled in June
Annie was our guide, and she did an excellent job! The trip was very well organized, and Annie was very friendly, helpful & informative. I would highly recommend this trip and we enjoyed the camping option. You get a lot of "spare time" in Yosemite Valley and Annie helped us with which hikes, activities etc to do. This trip is one of our favorite ones we have done with a tour company!
Yosemite Escape Camping - 3 Days - H
Hana • traveled in May
Our tour guide, Dorit was excellent!
San Francisco & Yosemite Express 3D/2N (From Los Angeles)
Traveler Photos & Videos from California tours
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Yosemite Escape Camping - 3 DaysCraig
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San Francisco & Yosemite Express 3D/2N (From Los Angeles)
SPShanna
Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite
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OMOriana
Yosemite & Tahoe Sierras - 4 Days
MMMary
Death Valley Inn Based Tour
Table of contents
- The best California tour packages
- Travel California your way
- Best tour companies for California tours
- Popular California Cruise Ships
- Best places to start your California tour
- California tours for every type of group
- Top California travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit California
- Contact our California travel experts
- What our customers ask about California Tours & Trips
The best California tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaCalifornia travel expert at TourRadar
California Express - 3 Days
187 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amadeo TRAVEL RELATED SERVICES its well and good provider.”
Naveen, traveled in July
Rated 4.5/5 by 40+ travelers, this California adventure spans 5 cities in 3 days. San Francisco Bay cruising, Monterey's Cannery Row, and Carmel - Clint Eastwood's hometown await. Summer brings Yosemite's 730-meter falls, while winter offers extended Monterey stays. Continental breakfasts and multilingual guides included.
Duration 3 days Destinations Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Carmel, San Francisco, Yosemite National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese Operator Empire Vacations From
- US$620
Yosemite Escape Camping - 3 Days
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This was a great trip. The camping grounds were stellar. Waking up to a delicious breakfast and beautiful scenery, I was blessed to have done this tour.”
Amanda, traveled in October
California's landscapes stretch from San Francisco to Yosemite Valley. Campsites near iconic locations serve as bases for Tuolumne Meadows hikes and alpine lake swims. Highly-rated guides (4.9/5) lead groups age 36+ through moderate trails.
Duration 3 days Destinations San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Incredible Adventures From
- US$795
California National Park Discovery
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Awesome new friends, great itinerary and fantastic experience.”
Amelia, traveled in May
California's diverse terrain unfolds from Death Valley's Badwater Basin to Sequoia's General Sherman Tree. The Mist Trail leads to Vernal Falls in Yosemite before visiting San Francisco's iconic sites. This 7-day adventure features comfortable hotels and maintains a 4.8/5 rating.
Duration 7 days Destinations Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park, Bakersfield, Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park, San Francisco Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $2,199
17% Off- US$1,825You save $374
Yosemite & Tahoe Sierras - 4 Days
14 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The views were more than I could've asked for. Can not express enough what this trip has done for me.”
Matthew, traveled in August
Marvel at California's natural wonders: Yosemite's Half Dome, Tuolumne's Giant Sequoias, and Lake Tahoe's emerald waters. Gold Rush Country unfolds with stops at Mammoth Lakes and Bodie Ghost Town. Includes three mountain accommodations and expert guide service.
Duration 4 days Destinations San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne, Mammoth Lakes, Devils Postpile National Monument, Lake Tahoe Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Incredible Adventures From
17% Off- US$1,509
Hiking in Yosemite National Park
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Yosemite National Park is breathtaking. As I walked along the hikes, there was so much natural beauty.”
Linda, traveled in June
From San Francisco to Yosemite, iconic landscapes await. The route passes Half Dome views and includes scaling Sentinel Dome via Four Mile Trail, with visits to Tuolumne Grove sequoias. A rustic mountain lodge serves as base for daily guided adventures.
Duration 6 days Destinations San Francisco, Yosemite National Park Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From
17% Off- US$2,830
San Francisco & Yosemite Express 3D/2N (From Los Angeles)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The San Francisco/Yosemite tour was awesome. It exceeded my expectations.”
Ritika, traveled in March
Three days of California's treasures cost approx. $270 per day. The route winds from Los Angeles through Santa Barbara's Spanish Mission, along Carmel's 17-Mile Drive, into San Francisco's Chinatown, and up to Yosemite's Half Dome. Highly-rated accommodations (4.7/5) and expert guides enhance the trip.
Duration 3 days Destinations Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Carmel, San Francisco, Yosemite National Park Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
17% Off- US$820
Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great itinerary.”
Hitesh, traveled in May
California's premier national parks reveal their glory over 8 days. Visitors trek Sequoia's Giant Forest, reach Kings Canyon's Buena Vista Peak, and ascend Yosemite's Mist Trail to Nevada Falls. Nights are spent camping under ancient sequoias with challenging 2,000ft elevation gains.
Duration 8 days Destinations Las Vegas, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, San Francisco Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $1,849
25% Off- US$1,387You save $462
Northern California with Yosemite National Park
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great trip with Trafalgar tours.”
myron, traveled in June
San Francisco's urban charm contrasts with Yosemite's wilderness on this diverse tour. Highlights include Monterey's Cannery Row, Golden Gate Bridge walks, and Salinas Valley farm tours. Luxury awaits at Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa and Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Duration 8 days Destinations San Francisco, Sausalito, Sonoma, Santa Rosa, Lake Tahoe, Sacramento, Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada, Mariposa, MontereySee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Trafalgar From
25% Off- US$3,575
Northern California's Finest
220 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We have been pleased with them all.”
Douglas, traveled in September
California's beauty unfolds from San Francisco's city lights to Yosemite's natural wonders. Rest at the luxurious Tenaya Lodge and historic Wuksachi Lodge. Sample wines in Sonoma Valley, ride Valley Floor Tram in Yosemite, and stargaze beneath towering sequoias. Includes expert guides and premium accommodations.
Duration 9 days Destinations San Francisco, Sonoma, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Monterey Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Globus From $4,479
3% Off- US$4,329You save $150
5 day California Coastlines and Vineyards, Waves and Wine small group tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“This is a really well put together tour with super cute accommodation and a good range of included activities.”
Craig, traveled in May
Walk among ancient giants at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, then bike through Russian River Valley's vineyard roads with stops at two boutique wineries for tastings. Kayak under the stars on a bioluminescent tour in Tomales Bay, followed by fresh oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co. with views over the bay. The multi-course VIP Chef's Table at Capo Creek Winery pairs nicely with soaking in geothermal mineral springs at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, then you'll wander around Sonoma's historic plaza.
Duration 5 days Destinations San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore Age Range Ages 21+ Operator Bindlestiff Tours From $3,995
12% Off- US$3,516You save $479
Travel California your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for California tours
TourRadar customers consistently highlight three tour companies that stand out for different reasons. Intrepid has earned a solid reputation for their thoughtful itineraries and comfortable places to stay, with guide Shane getting special mentions for his enthusiasm and deep local knowledge. Though it's worth noting that some travelers mention their guides can sometimes rush through activities and aren't always helpful with money matters. For families traveling together or older folks looking for a reliable experience, Amadeo Travel seems to hit the mark. Their guides Jacob and Roberto get lots of positive feedback, especially for how they handle the specific needs of larger family groups and senior travelers. Those heading to Yosemite often choose IncAdventures, where guides Kate and Jill have built quite a following. They've got a knack for turning regular park visits into really meaningful experiences - you'll find lots of stories from travelers about how these guides helped them connect with Yosemite in ways they hadn't expected. Each company brings something different to the table, but they all share one thing in common: guides who know their stuff and genuinely care about giving travelers a good experience. The small hiccups mentioned with Intrepid's guides are worth keeping in mind, but overall, these companies seem to deliver what they promise.
Popular California Cruise Ships
Best places to start your California tour
You've got options for starting points - San Francisco and Los Angeles each kick off 22 different tours, while Las Vegas launches another 14 routes. Our booking data shows most people lock in their trips about 67 days ahead, which really helps if you're hoping to stay inside Yosemite where rooms get snapped up fast. The California coast - places like Monterey and San Diego - shows its best side in early fall with clear skies and nice temperatures. Wine lovers get the full experience during harvest from August through October, though spring brings flowers and smaller crowds. Most folks find 10-14 days hits the sweet spot - enough time to really explore without rushing from place to place.
California tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top California travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
Solo Travelers58 tours- Couples71 tours
- Seniors (50+)68 tours
Best time to visit California
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter shows California's different character, with routes shifting to match the season. Tours often start in Los Angeles before heading up to Santa Barbara, where you can walk through the old Spanish Mission and get good ocean views from Stearns Wharf. Many groups continue to Solvang - the Danish-style streets feel extra welcoming in winter with their cozy atmosphere. Following the coast up to Monterey and Cannery Row, our travelers really enjoy spotting whales during their winter migration. When snow closes Tioga Pass, Yosemite tours adapt to lower areas. The winter light at Death Valley spots like Zabriskie Point is particularly good for photos, with morning sun bringing out all the texture in those folded landscapes.
- January 2026 21 tours
- popular 26 tours
- Spring 2026
California's spring tours really shine when connecting Death Valley's painted landscapes with Yosemite's peak-flow waterfalls. Our travelers give high marks to the Vegas-San Francisco routes, where guides schedule Death Valley visits with perfect timing - letting you discover Zabriskie Point and salt flats in ideal temperatures. Moving into Sequoia National Park, visitors walk beneath towering giants along the Congress Trail, and climb Buena Vista Peak for panoramic Sierra vistas. The Yosemite section comes alive in spring as you follow the Mist Trail past roaring Vernal and Nevada Falls, with flexible time to cycle the valley floor or capture El Capitan through your lens. Wine enthusiasts appreciate how these tours weave through Sonoma's vineyards between park visits, while explorations of Haight Ashbury, Golden Gate Park and also Fisherman's Wharf round out the San Francisco experience. TourRadar customers often mention how guides skillfully adjust hiking speeds for different fitness levels, while creating peaceful moments to absorb California's springtime scenery.
- 35 tours
- 27 tours
- popular 39 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer opens up every trail and vista California has to offer. The Vegas-San Francisco route gets lots of bookings - our guides know to hit Death Valley's salt flats early before the real heat kicks in. Yosemite really comes into its own: you can tackle the Mist Trail up to Vernal and Nevada Falls, cycle through the valley and cool off floating down the Merced River. Our customers love walking among the giant sequoias in Tuolumne Grove, where the massive trees create natural air conditioning. The coast is perfect this time of year too - you can sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and explore around Fisherman's Wharf. Small groups work especially well because guides can adjust the pace, find quiet spots and dodge the busy areas.
- 44 tours
- popular 55 tours
- 53 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn reveals California's prime travel moments, especially on routes connecting Vegas to San Francisco, where you'll find perfect hiking conditions in Yosemite minus the summer crowds. Our customers tell us these tours hit Death Valley at just the right time, when cooler temperatures make exploring the salt flats and Zabriskie Point much more pleasant. The coastal sections peak in early fall - you drive through Big Sur and pause in Carmel when the fog lifts for maximum visibility. Plenty of travelers pick tours that blend city experiences with national parks; starting in San Francisco's Chinatown, then heading to Yosemite where the Mist Trail leading to Vernal and Nevada Falls sees fewer hikers than summer months. Wine enthusiasts particularly appreciate autumn tours through Sonoma, Napa Valley and also the wine country, where harvest activities fill the calendar from August through October. The quick 3-day express routes deliver too - expect clear skies while cruising Highway 1, discovering Santa Barbara's Spanish missions, exploring Solvang's Danish streets and finally reaching San Francisco.
- popular 55 tours
- 45 tours
- 26 tours
Contact our California travel experts
Giovanna
Expert in California at TourRadar
Giovanna is one of our seasoned California Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about California tours answered!
- Choose from 153+ California tours
- 1,145 verified reviews by TourRadar customers
- 24/7 customer support
Call us
+1 844 311 8331What our customers ask about California Tours & Trips
How Do You Get Around California - What's The Best Way to Explore?
You know while California has great public transport options like San Francisco's iconic cable cars and the BART system getting around really depends on what you want to see. LA's got its Metro Rail and Amtrak connects the major spots like San Francisco LA and San Diego which works well if you're sticking to cities. But honestly if you want to drive the Pacific Coast Highway or check out some of those amazing remote areas you'll probably want to rent a car - it just gives you so much more freedom to explore at your own pace.
How Long Should You Plan for a California Trip?
Look if you really want to experience everything California's got to offer you're looking at 2-3 weeks to do it right. That said if you're short on time you can definitely focus on specific regions. Our 3-Day California Express tour for example packs in Santa Barbara Solvang San Francisco and Yosemite National Park it's quick but you'll get a great taste of what California's about.
Where Can You Find Those Hidden Cultural Gems in California?
There's this amazing Danish village called Solvang that our TourRadar travelers just love - it's got this authentic Danish feel with beautiful architecture local bakeries and cute shops. Over in Yosemite Valley you can take these incredible guided walks with Yosemite Conservancy experts who'll share Native American history and conservation stories. And if you're into historical spots our 8-Day Northern California tour takes you through Virginia City this fascinating old gold and silver mining town that really brings the past to life.
What About the Food Scene - Where Should You Eat?
California's food is this amazing mix of different influences and you've got to try it all. Head to San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf for fresh Dungeness crab and their famous clam chowder in sourdough bowls. If you're into fresh local food Monterey County's agricultural scene is incredible - our 8-Day Northern California tour actually includes this cool agricultural tour through Salinas Valley where you can taste stuff right from the source.
When's The Best Time to Visit California and What's The Weather Like?
The weather in California really varies depending on where you are. Summer's great for beaches and national parks while winter stays pretty mild in Southern California but gets cooler up north with some rain. Spring's beautiful with wildflowers everywhere and fall gives you those gorgeous mountain colors. Just keep in mind Yosemite's Tioga Pass usually closes from mid-October through May because of weather. If you're traveling in winter our San Francisco & Yosemite Express tour's got you covered - we swap out Yosemite for Hearst Castle when the weather's not cooperating.