For a charming room at a reasonable price within the town limits of Sonoma, stay in the Sonoma Creek Inn (239 Boyes Blvd., 888/712-1289, www.sonomacreekinn.com, $90–160). The whimsical, colorful decor and unique art pieces brighten each guest room and each guest’s stay. Amenities include cable TV, free wireless Internet access, a refrigerator, and private garden patios. Located a few minutes away from downtown Sonoma and convenient to the Carneros wineries, the Sonoma Creek Inn is perfect for travelers who want to spend their money on the wine and dining of the region rather than their motel room.

Right on Sonoma Plaza in the heart of Sonoma, Les Petites Maisons (1190 E. Napa St., 800/291-8962, www.lespetitesmaisons.com, $130–325) offers four cute cottages for a homey stay in the Wine Country. Each cottage has its own style, but all have the warm colors and comfy furniture evoke the relaxation needed for a perfect vacation. All the cottages have fully equipped kitchens (one with kitchenette) that let you visit the fabulous Sonoma farmers markets and cook your own fresh food. Or you can eat at the girl and the fig or one of the other wonderful restaurants on the Plaza.

In 1850, one of the first Spanish settlers to the Sonoma area built a home for his family on the town square. For almost the last 100 years, the Swiss Hotel (18 W. Spain St., 707/938-2884, www.swisshotelsonoma.com, $110–250) has offered a bed and a meal to travelers from near and far. With a renovation in the 1990s, the guest rooms have plenty of modern amenities, while the outside of the building and the public spaces retain the historic feel of the original adobe building. You’ll find your room light, bright, and airy with fresh paint and pretty floral comforters. Downstairs, take a meal at the restaurant or have a drink at the historic bar—or both! Step outside to take a walk around the historic Plaza.