Experience California's major attractions and hidden treasures by road and by rail on this unique vacation. Start your trip in San Francisco, the "City by the Bay," where your sightseeing tour includes the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, and Nob Hill. Stroll the charming streets of Sausalito, then view Napa Valley in style aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. Sit back and relax as you pass many of the region’s notable vineyards and wineries. In Santa Rosa, the largest city in California’s wine country, enjoy some leisure time and a visit to the Korbel Winery for a champagne cellar tour and tasting. From Fort Bragg, you travel into the Coastal Mountain Range, home of the towering redwood trees, on the 1885-era Skunk Train. In Sacramento, California’s capital, enjoy an orientation tour and a thrilling ride over the Fremont Trestle—the West's longest wooden bridge at 8,000 feet—on the Sacramento RiverTrain. The fun continues with a trip to Yosemite National Park and a sightseeing tour of California's picturesque coast. Visit Carmel, a quaint town popular with writers, artists, and celebrities, and travel the spectacular 17-Mile Drive to Monterey—with views of Lone Cypress, Cypress Point, and the world-renowned Pebble Beach Golf Course. Enjoy free time and a sightseeing tour in Monterey; then travel back in time on Roaring Camp Railroad's 100-year-old narrow-gauge steam train. Finally, return to San Francisco for three nights and two full days to further explore San Francisco's beauty, culture, and cuisine. What a perfect way to end your California train vacation!
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Day 1Mon. SAN FRANCISCO
Welcome to San Francisco! Enjoy time at leisure to relax or to do some independent exploring. Your Tour Director is on hand this evening to answer any questions.
Day 2Tue. SAN FRANCISCO
This morning, explore the famous “City by the Bay” on our included sightseeing tour. See the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Nob Hill. This afternoon is at leisure to discover more of this vibrant city on your own. Shop the stores of Union Square, ride one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars, or enjoy a bay cruise. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for the best places to shop and dine.
Day 3Wed. SAN FRANCISCO–SAUSALITO–SANTA ROSA
Today our first stop is Sausalito, the jewel of San Francisco Bay. There’s time to stroll the charming streets, take in the breathtaking views, browse through the unique boutiques, or enjoy the plaza area. Later, view the scenic Napa Valley in style aboard the NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN. On board you’ll enjoy an elegant 3-course dinner. Sit back and relax as you pass many of the region’s notable vineyards and wineries. We overnight in Santa Rosa, the largest city in California’s wine country. (Lunch) Note: Departure 9/20 will enjoy dinner aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, instead of lunch.
Day 4Thu. SANTA ROSA–FORT BRAGG
This morning is at leisure in Santa Rosa. Why not visit historic Railroad Square, containing the old Northwestern Pacific Railroad depot and the former Petaluma and Santa Rosa Railroad depot? Walk among these notable buildings that are now home to a bustling shopping and dining district. This afternoon we’ll visit the Korbel Winery and enjoy a CHAMPAGNE CELLAR TOUR. You’ll see where the world-famous Korbel Champagnes were first made more than 100 years ago, visit the antique vaults, and learn the history of the Korbel legacy. Your tour ends with a tasting of this bubbly libation. We then travel along historic Highway 1 and overnight in the coastal town of Fort Bragg.
Day 5Fri. FORT BRAGG–SACRAMENTO
This morning we take a leisurely journey into the Redwoods, criss-crossing the Noyo River and into the Coastal Mountain Range on the Historic SKUNK TRAIN. Built in 1885 as a logging railroad, the Skunk line began as a means of moving massive redwood logs to the sawmills of the coast. Steam passenger service started in 1904 but was discontinued 20 years later when the self-powered, yellow “Skunk” rail cars were inaugurated. The little trains were quickly nicknamed for their original gas engines, which prompted folks to say, “You can smell ‘em before you can see ‘em.” Moving at a leisurely pace you’ll have plenty of time for taking photos of the exhilarating journey. Afterward, we continue to Sacramento, a former Gold Rush town and now capital city of California. Our orientation tour includes Old Sacramento, the downtown area, the Governor’s Mansion, and State Capitol.
Day 6Sat. SACRAMENTO
Today we’ll have a thrilling adventure as we travel aboard the SACRAMENTO RIVERTRAIN and relive the days of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. In addition to Western-themed characters, the train will stop for a delicious barbecue followed by an old-fashioned gunfight along the shores of the Sacramento River. Travel through scenic countryside, past farms and fields. A highlight of the trip is when we pass over the Fremont Trestle. This 8,000-foot-long bridge is the longest wooden bridge in the West. Later this afternoon, we visit the CALIFORNIA STATE RAILROAD MUSEUM, widely regarded as one of North America’s finest railroad museums. The museum offers lavishly refurbished trains, engaging exhibits, and special events throughout the year. (Lunch)
Day 7Sun. SACRAMENTO–YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK–MERCED
The highlight of today is a visit to YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, one of America’s first wilderness areas. Located in Central California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, Yosemite National Park encompasses an incredible 1,170 square miles of breathtaking natural splendor. During your time here you may want to enjoy an open-air tram ride, rent a bicycle, visit the Ansel Adams photography studio, join a trail ride, or just relax with a picnic lunch.
Day 8Mon. MERCED–17-MILE DRIVE–MONTEREY
Today, travel to California’s picturesque coast. Enjoy a visit to the lovely town of Carmel, a popular retreat for writers, artists, and celebrities. A highlight of today’s journey is the spectacular 17-MILE DRIVE to Monterey, with views of Cypress Point, famous Pebble Beach Golf Course, and the tenacious Lone Cypress. Upon arrival in Monterey, enjoy a sightseeing tour that includes a visit to historic Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel. During your free time, explore the unique shops and galleries, watch the sea lions and otters, or visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Day 9Tue. MONTEREY–SAN FRANCISCO
This morning’s journey is on the ROARING CAMP RAILROAD and the 100-year-old steam train. Travel over trestles, through redwood groves, and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. Once at the summit it is your choice to return down Bear Mountain by train or by walking trail with a trained guide. Upon arrival at Roaring Camp, there’s time to explore the old-fashioned general store, the opera house, depot, and covered bridge. This afternoon we return to San Francisco, where you can join an optional farewell dinner.
Days 10-11Wed. & Thu. SAN FRANCISCO
Two full days to explore the city considered by many to be the most beautiful and vibrant in the United States. Perhaps spend more time at bustling Fisherman’s Wharf, or visit the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. You can also explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, from North Beach and Nob Hill to Haight-Ashbury. Your Local Host will have suggestions for additional sightseeing and the best places to shop and dine.
Day 12Fri. SAN FRANCISCO
The trip ends today with guests departing on individual schedules. Transfers are provided to San Francisco International Airport.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS WITH US
Learn more about booking an air-inclusive vacation - the reasons why include, you'll receive free airport transfer on published dates and your air will be coordinated with your vacation.
AIRPORT TRANSFER TIMES
View details and pricing on airport transfer times and extra nights. Learn more about what's included with your vacation and how you can personalize it.
INCLUDED FEATURES
In San Francisco; orientation tour in Sacramento; Napa Valley Wine Train, Korbel Winery, Skunk Train, Sacramento RiverTrain, California State Railroad Museum, Monterey, Roaring Camp Railroad. Inside visits as shown in UPPERCASE in the tour description, including admission charges where applicable.
SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS
Sausalito, Napa Valley, Yosemite National Park, Carmel, 17-Mile Drive.
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
GUIDES
Services of a professional Tour Director. Host service in San Francisco, where information is provided for independent exploration and dining.
STANDARD INCLUDED FEATURES
Learn more about transportation, hotels, and other standard included features offered.
MEALS - (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner
2 lunches (L)
HOTELS - (F) First-Class (ST) Superior Tourist-Class (T) Tourist Class
San Francisco Hotel Carlton (MF); Santa Rosa Days Inn (ST); Fort Bragg Best Western Vista Manor (MF); Sacramento Hawthorne Suites (T); Merced Ramada Inn (ST); Monterey Days Inn (T)
TRANSPORTATION
Four scenic train journeys; private, deluxe air-conditioned motorcoach while touring.
Here's a list of optional excursions you can enjoy during your vacation. Whether it's a special dinner, a local show or a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into an historical site, optional excursions are a wonderful way to enrich your vacation even further. Plus, they give you flexibility. We include the must-see sites and experiences, and we also understand that people take interest in different activities and may want to craft a more personal vacation by hand-picking optional excursions that appeal to them.
Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, days of operation, group interests, and general feasibility for your vacation. The approximate value listed gives you a good, general idea of what you can expect to pay but may vary once you are on your vacation. Some information provided might be in a foreign currency; you can use our online
currency converter for exchange rate information.
CITY: MontereyMonterey Bay Aquarium Explore the wonders of our ocean planet in nearly 200 galleries and exhibits at one of the world's finest aquariums. Highlights include a million-gallon indoor ocean with giant bluefin tuna, sharks, sea turtles, stingrays and barracuda; plus the largest jellyfish exhibits anywhere.
Approximate value: USD $25 per person
CITY: Sacramento1-Hour Historic River Cruise For the finest Old Sacramento sightseeing available, hop aboard one of Hornblower's exciting river cruises. Guests see the region¿s most scenic, storied sites and enjoy five-star service aboard comfortable vessels. Cocktails and small bites are available for purchase.
Approximate value: USD $20 per person
CITY: San FranciscoEvening In Chinatown Explore this vibrant historic section of San Francisco that houses the largest Chinese community outside of Asia. Included in this evening's agenda is a lavish four-course dinner in an authentic Chinese restaurant. This evening will include a short walking tour of Chinatown plus a ride on San Francisco famous Cable Cars.
Approximate value: USD $38 per person
Rocket Boat Get blown away on this 30-minute high-speed tour of the City's historic waterfront. Sail past the sea lions, zoom to the Bay Bridge, fly down to AT&T Park, scream past Treasure Island, and breeze by Alcatraz on the way back to PIER 39. This exciting ride pauses occasionally to allow passengers to catch their breath and capture unique sightseeing and photo opportunities unavailable on other tours. RocketBoat, it's an extreme adventure powered by biodiesel fuel. A blast on the Bay that is not to be missed.
Approximate value: USD $26 per person
San Francisco By Night The evening begins with dinner at a popular Fisherman's Wharf restaurant and spectacular views of the bay. Afterwards visit historic Ghirardelli Square. Set on the city's dynamic waterfront, the square offers a great view of the sea and elegant 19th-century factor and mill buildings that are worth exploring. During your visit, relax with an Irish coffee and some world famous chocolates. Before heading back to your hotel we will drive out to Treasure Island to view the city lights from across the bay.
Approximate value: USD $60 per person
View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you'll find the date you'll depart, the date the vacation starts and date you'll return.
Once you've selected your date, you'll move to the next step to get an airfare quote and to begin booking your vacation. When you book your flights with us, you'll find we offer competitive and hassle-free airfares, plus you'll receive free airport transfers, flights coordinated with vacation dates and you'll avoid strict Internet terms and conditions.
The price listed does not include your airfare. Once you click "Book Now", you will be able to receive an air quote.
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9/20/2010
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9/20/2010
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10/1/2010
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$1,559.00
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Not Available
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10/4/2010
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10/4/2010
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10/15/2010
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$1,559.00
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Not Available
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Single Room Supplement: $520
Triple Room Reduction per person: $87
* Indicates that this departure and vacation is available for 2011 early booking. 2010 saw the lowest prices to Europe in recent history. Get this vacation on the books and save by paying 2010 prices for your 2011 European vacation. Price protection only applies to those tours that currently offer 2011 dates and prices and only with full, per person deposit. All tours will be open for 2011 bookings in the Fall of 2010. Vacation upgrades and/or additions will not be available for early booking, as well as, any extra pre- or post-night pricing until the Fall of 2010. With the exception of Journeys Club coupons, future travel promotions are not applicable and are not retroactive on early bookings.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS & EXTRA NIGHTSView details and pricing on airport transfer times and extra nights. Learn more about what's included with your vacation and how you can personalize it.
US$ Price Details
Our Volume Buying Power Saves You Money!
-We may be able to provide you with flight arrangements from your gateway city.
-Additional accommodations before or after your vacation may be available at our low prices.
Additional Information:
-Departure/arrival taxes and fares from other cities will be advised at the time of booking.
-Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
Guaranteed air-inclusive prices:
Air is only available to passengers traveling from the United States and only available when booked in conjunction with a land vacation. An additional $250 non-refundable deposit is required for air booked in conjunction with any land vacation (i.e., air-inclusive vacation.) However, once your airfare is confirmed and Cosmos has received your full air and land deposit, your air-inclusive vacation price is guaranteed.
We also accept your reservation on a land-only basis:
While booking your vacation air-inclusive gives you various advantages, you can also choose the land-only option. But remember, airlines’ special fares generally apply to very brief periods. (Our low air-inclusive fares apply throughout the year.) Plus, to get these “deals” you often are required to pay full fare at the time of booking.
Taxes & fees
Taxes and fees are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full land and air deposit are received.
Applicable Taxes and Fees (Airfare & Charges Not Included in the Price)
Air-Inclusive Vacations
Air-inclusive prices provided online include a September 11th fee up to $10, passenger facility charges of up to $18, Federal domestic flight segment fees of up to $3.50 per segment and U.S. and International arrival and departure and other government imposed fees between $200-$375 depending on your itinerary. The total airfare price, the base airfare price, and the applicable government taxes and fees are broken-out line-by-line and shown while booking online and on the invoice after your travel is booked.
Not Included In Your Vacation Price (Air-Inclusive, Land-Only or Cruise-Only)
Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities: port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships’ crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection premiums; excess baggage fees; and all other items of a personal nature.