May 10 - 19, 2027 · US tour by air

Northern California

San Francisco, CA, USAOnly 8 seats left

Discover the beauty, history, and natural wonders of Northern California on this unforgettable scenic adventure. From the rugged Pacific coastline of Monterey to the towering granite cliffs of Yosemite National Park, this journey showcases some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American West. Along the way, experience charming seaside towns, travel through California’s fertile agricultural heartland, cruise the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, and savor the flavors of Napa Valley before concluding in vibrant San Francisco. Please note that this tour includes several Activity Level 3 experiences, including moderate walking on trails, city streets, and scenic viewpoints, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy staying active while exploring some of California’s most spectacular destinations.

Moderate activity pace

from $5,100 / per person, double occupancy

Single rooms are sold out

Reserve your seat Download the brochure

4.9

76 reviews

WeTravel guest reviews, across every departure we run

About

Trip overview

*When registering for this tour please be sure to fill out your name as it is listed on your Drivers License or Real ID you will use at the airport*

120 or more days before departure: Full refund of everything you've paid, including your deposit.

119 to 90 days before departure: Refund of everything paid beyond your deposit. The deposit is non-refundable.

Fewer than 90 days before departure: No refund, unless your spot is resold or your travel insurance covers it.

We strongly recommend travel insurance.

Dates: May 10 - 19, 2027
Length: 10 days · 9 nights
Meals included: 16+ meals
Pace: Moderate activity
Deposit: $500 per person
Group size: Up to 52 travellers
Flies from: Chicago

Moderate activity A fuller day with regular walking and longer sightseeing. You should be comfortable walking over a mile a day at a steady pace to keep up with the group, and able to manage airports, stairs and occasional uneven ground independently. Best if you stay fairly active. Not sure if it suits you? Call us, or read what each pace means.

What our travelers say

4.976 WeTravel reviews

★★★★★L & LM

What an awesome trip this was. Thanks for being such a caring and compassionate, let alone Christian, tour company that can’t be beat!

★★★★★Linda G.

I can’t believe it, it was on my bucket list, but I never thought that I would ever get to go. Thank you for helping me to complete one of my dreams!

★★★★★PM

We had a wonderful time. It was nice meeting all of our fellow travelers. This was our first trip with Tom’s Christian Tours. Based off of this one, there will be more. Tom is a GREAT tour guide. We’re looking forward to our next trip.

★★★★★D & J

Thanks for all the memories we made on the trip. You were very hospitable and the trip was very organized.

★★★★★B.

Enjoyed every minute of the tour. Learned so much.

★★★★★J & P B

Another great trip! It was well-planned and well-executed. In addition to the great sights, you always plan some fun surprises. The food choices were varied and delicious. We continue to recommend TCT to all our friends.

★★★★★S.R

Top reasons I like Tom’s Christian Tours: 1. Every day on tour is a day that we heard about God’s grace and love for us. Including worship at a church on Sunday morning! 2. The tour directors are kind, nice, polite and knowledgeable. 3. Somebody else does the driving. While you enjoy the scenery. 4. Fantastic restaurants EVERY DAY! 5. Pick a spot – somebody else does all the planning! Highly recommend TCT for your future trip!

★★★★★Linda B

I met wonderful people on this tour! The tour guides and bus driver were fantastic! The accommodations were TOP NOTCH in clean and spacious rooms. I loved everything about this tour with Tom's Christian Tours! Highly recommend!

★★★★★Chris W

It was wonderful. My sisters and I had so much fun. So many great memories were made. Also made some new friends too.

★★★★★MK

What an incredible 11 days. Everything was perfectly planned. Scenery was amazing. I have told everyone there wasn’t one thing that I could give a negative review.

Your trip

Day by day

Open any day to read it in full. Meal chips show what’s included that day. Timings are a guide — your final documents confirm the details.

Day 1

Coast road to Monterey

Monday, May 10Dinner

Your Northern California adventure begins as we arrive in San Francisco and travel by motorcoach along the scenic California coast to the charming seaside city of Monterey. Known for its dramatic ocean views and historic maritime heritage, Monterey offers the perfect welcome to the Pacific Coast. After checking into our hotel, there will be time to relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. Guests may wish to stroll along the famous Cannery Row or explore Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where fishing boats, shops, and ocean breezes set the tone for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2

Point Lobos and 17-Mile Drive

Tuesday, May 11. 2027BreakfastDinner

Today we explore some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in California. Our morning begins with a guided visit to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, often called the “crown jewel” of California’s state parks. Here we enjoy spectacular views of turquoise coves, rugged sea cliffs, windswept cypress trees, and abundant wildlife such as sea lions and otters. Later, we travel to the storybook village of Carmel-by-the-Sea where there will be time for lunch, shopping, and exploring charming art galleries and boutiques. In the afternoon we experience the legendary 17-Mile Drive, one of the most scenic coastal routes in America, passing iconic sights including the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, and Pebble Beach Golf Links. This evening we gather together for a delightful group dinner at a beloved local restaurant.

Day 3

Olive oil and almond orchards

Wednesday, May 12, 2027BreakfastLunchDinner

This morning we leave the coast and travel northeast into California’s fertile Central Valley, one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. Our first stop is a family-owned olive oil producer where we will enjoy a tasting and learn about the traditions of local olive oil production. After lunch, we visit a working almond orchard to discover how these famous California crops are grown and harvested. Along the way, our guide will share insights into the region’s rich farming heritage. This evening we arrive in Modesto and settle into our hotel before enjoying dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Day 4

A day in Yosemite Valley

Thursday, May 13, 2027BreakfastDinner

Prepare for a breathtaking day as we journey into Yosemite National Park, one of America’s most celebrated natural treasures. Towering granite cliffs, ancient forests, and spectacular waterfalls surround us as we explore the valley. We will see famous landmarks such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and the impressive Yosemite Falls—one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. There will be time for photography, hiking, and simply taking in the grandeur of this remarkable landscape. After enjoying a picnic lunch in the park, we return to Modesto for dinner and an evening of relaxation.

Day 5

Old Sacramento and its museums

Friday May 14, 2027Breakfast

Today we travel to Sacramento, the capital of California and a city rich with Gold Rush history. Upon arrival we visit Old Sacramento, a preserved historic district where wooden sidewalks and restored buildings transport visitors back to the 1800s. Guests will have time to explore the area and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the fascinating California State Railroad Museum or explore the Crocker Art Museum, one of the oldest art museums in the West. Later we check into our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure in this historic riverfront city.

Day 6

Over the Sierras to Lake Tahoe

Saturday May 15, 2027Breakfast

Our journey continues as we cross the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains on our way to the alpine paradise of Lake Tahoe. Surrounded by towering peaks and dense pine forests, Lake Tahoe is known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. This afternoon we enjoy a narrated scenic cruise on the lake, learning about the history and natural beauty of the region while taking in spectacular views from the water. After arriving at our lakeside hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy with dinner at the resort and time to relax in this stunning mountain setting.

Day 7

Napa Valley, then San Francisco

Sunday, May 16, 2027BreakfastLunch

Today we travel to world-famous Napa Valley, where rolling vineyards and picturesque wineries define the landscape. Here we enjoy a guided vineyard tour and a private tasting experience, learning about the region’s celebrated winemaking traditions. A special high end lunch in wine country allows us to savor the flavors of Napa before continuing to San Francisco. Upon arrival, we check into our downtown hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore Union Square, browse local shops, or relax after a wonderful day in California’s premier wine region.

Day 8

Alcatraz and the cable cars

Monday May 17, 2027BreakfastDinner

Today we experience the iconic sights of San Francisco. Our day begins at lively Pier 39 where the famous sea lions gather along the waterfront. Next we take a ferry to Alcatraz Island for a guided visit to the historic federal penitentiary that once held some of America’s most notorious prisoners. Later we ride one of the city’s classic cable cars and visit Ghirardelli Square for shopping and sweet treats. This evening we celebrate our adventure with a special farewell dinner at a well-known San Francisco restaurant.

Day 9

San Francisco at your own pace

Tuesday May 18, 2027Breakfast

Today is yours to enjoy San Francisco at your own pace. Perhaps visit the beautiful gardens of Golden Gate Park, walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, explore the colorful streets of Chinatown, or browse the shops of Union Square. Optional excursions may include a trip to the towering redwoods of Muir Woods or a ferry ride to the charming waterfront town of Sausalito. Your tour director will be available with suggestions to help you make the most of this exciting day in the City by the Bay.

Day 10

Flying home

Wednesday May 19, 2027Breakfast

After a memorable journey through Northern California’s stunning coastlines, mountains, vineyards, and historic cities, we transfer to the airport for our return flight home. Filled with wonderful memories, scenic photographs, and new friendships, we say farewell to California as our scenic adventure comes to an end.

Want the whole trip on paper?

Every day of Northern California in one PDF, sent to your inbox. Print it, or share it with whoever is coming with you.

Send me the brochure

What’s included

Everything that’s covered

TRANSPORTATION: ✓Deluxe Motor Coach
LODGING: ✓Premium Lodging
MEALS: ✓16+ meals included (as noted on itinerary)
FLIGHTS: ✓Round trip airfare from Chicago to California
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION: ✓Motor coach transfer from TCT pickup points to the airport

Not included

What you’ll arrange yourself

TIPS: —Driver ($3-$4 per day per person) and Tour Director ($6-$7 per person per day)
MEALS: —Meals not listed on itinerary
INSURANCE: —Optional Travel Insurance will be available at the end of the registration process

What it’s like to travel with us

Oh, what a wondrous trip! Your care and attention to our group is outstanding!

G & A★★★★★

4.9

76 reviews

WeTravel guest reviews, across every departure we run

Before you travel

How this tour works

Three things people ask us before they book. Anything else, call (262) 290-1303.

Getting on board

Where you fly from

Flights leave from Chicago. Exact times come with your final documents.

Who you'll travel with

You won't be among strangers for long

Up to 52 travellers, more than half of whom have toured with us before, and one of our own directors with the group the whole way.

Solo travellers join every departure. Want to know who is already booked on this one? Call and ask — we are asked it every week.

Room options

Where you'll sleep

Double Occupancy$5,100 per person
Single OccupancySold out
Triple Occupancy$4,700 per person
Quad Occupancy$4,500 per person

Traveling alone? Tell us when you book and we will gladly try to match you with a same-gender roommate, so you avoid the single supplement.

Before you book

Questions people ask about this tour

Who handles the transportation once we are in California?+

TCT arranges the planned group transportation for the tour. That means you do not have to rent a car, navigate San Francisco traffic, figure out parking, or decide how to get from one stop to the next. The goal is for you to enjoy Northern California without carrying the burden of logistics.

What makes this Northern California trip a Christian tour?+

This is not just a sightseeing trip with a Christian label added at the end. With Tom’s Christian Tours, the faith piece is woven into the way we travel together: daily devotions, prayer, Christian fellowship, and a group atmosphere where faith feels natural. You will see beautiful parts of Northern California, but you will do it with people who understand why traveling in God’s creation is more meaningful when it is shared.

Is airfare included on this tour?+

Yes, airfare is included on this tour

How much walking is required on this tour?+

Northern California is a level 3 tour which means that you should be able to comfortably walk at least a mile a day. There will be opportunities for hiking and walking through towns that do have hills throughout.

What activity level is this tour?+

This Northern California tour is listed as a Level 3 trip. That means it is a moderate activity tour with regular walking, longer sightseeing days, and a more active schedule than a relaxed motorcoach trip. Guests should be comfortable walking more than one mile per day at a steady pace and navigating airports, hotels, attractions, stairs, longer walking distances, and occasional uneven terrain.

Is this trip wheelchair accessible?+

This trip is not designed as a wheelchair-assisted tour. Guests should be able to move independently through airports, hotels, restaurants, attractions, and sightseeing areas. If you use a wheelchair, walker, or scooter, please call TCT before booking so we can talk through what is realistic for this itinerary.

Does this tour include flying?+

This tour begins around San Francisco, California, so guests should expect air travel unless otherwise noted in the final booking details. Flying is part of why the activity level matters: airports can involve long walks, lines, escalators, baggage areas, and moving with the group.

Still deciding? Take the brochure with you.

Every day of Northern California in one PDF, sent to your inbox. Print it, or share it with whoever is coming with you.

Send me the brochure

Ask a question

Anything you want to know

How much walking is there really? Can you accommodate a dietary need? Is there a roommate available? Ask us anything about Northern California — a real person reads every message and replies within one business day.

from $5,100 / per person

Or call us directly: (262) 290-1303 · Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. CT

A real person reads every message and replies within one business day.

Explore more