A Romantic 5-Day Getaway: San Francisco Adventures
Experience the romance of the West Coast in San Francisco.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
A romantic trip to San Francisco offers an abundance of breathtaking views, stunning landmarks, and memorable experiences. From exploring the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to visiting Alcatraz Island, the city is full of romantic activities. Enjoy the culinary scene and indulge in the local seafood, wine, and chocolate while admiring the panoramic views of the Bay Area.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Check into the Four Seasons Hotel, located atop Nob Hill, with stunning views of the city
- Grab a coffee from Blue Bottle and stroll through the historic Ferry Building Marketplace
- Hop on a cable car to Lombard Street and snap some pictures of the famous "crookedest street in the world"
- Explore the colorful neighborhood of Chinatown and enjoy some dim sum for lunch
- Visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and walk or bike across to take in the breathtaking views
- End the day with a romantic dinner at Gary Danko, known for its impeccable service and French-inspired cuisine
- Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square, a quaint Italian cafe in North Beach
- Take a scenic drive to Ocean Beach and walk along the shores, while admiring the views of the Pacific Ocean
- Visit Golden Gate Park and explore the de Young Museum or the California Academy of Sciences
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and rent a paddleboat on Stow Lake
- Head back to the hotel for a romantic couple's massage at the spa
- Dine at La Folie, a Michelin-starred French restaurant, for an unforgettable gastronomic experience
- Book a private tour to Napa Valley or Sonoma to explore the renowned California wine country
- Visit a few wineries such as Robert Mondavi or Chateau Montelena to taste some of the best wines in the world
- Enjoy a scenic lunch at a vineyard overlooking the stunning scenery
- Take a stroll through the charming town of Yountville and visit the famous Bouchon Bakery for a sweet treat
- End the day with a romantic dinner at The French Laundry, a three-Michelin-starred world-renowned restaurant
- Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and experience the notorious former prison with an audio tour
- Head back to Fisherman's Wharf for a seafood lunch at the historic Tadich Grill
- Visit the sea lions at Pier 39 and take a cruise along the bay
- Explore the historic Ghirardelli Square and indulge in some chocolate treats at the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
- Dine at Waterbar, a seafood restaurant with dazzling views of the Bay Bridge and the San Francisco Bay
- Rent a bike or take a hike through the Presidio, a national park with incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge
- Visit the famous Painted Ladies, a row of colorful Victorian houses in Alamo Square
- Take a tour of the iconic San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and see works by famous artists
- Enjoy a late lunch at The Slanted Door, a modern Vietnamese restaurant in the Ferry Building
- End the trip with one last romantic sunset at Coit Tower, offering breathtaking views of the city and bay.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to San Francisco by plane is to fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) which has multiple direct flights from major cities around the world.
Car
Driving to San Francisco is a great option as it allows you to take scenic routes and make stops along the way. The most direct route is to take Interstate 580 West from Oakland or Interstate 101 North from Los Angeles.
Train
While there are no direct trains to San Francisco, you can take Amtrak's Capitol Corridor train from Sacramento and connect to a bus which will take you to San Francisco.
Boat
While it is not possible to take a boat directly to San Francisco, you can take a ferry from nearby cities such as Oakland, Alameda or Sausalito and enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Area.
Bus
The best way to get to San Francisco by bus is to take Greyhound which has multiple daily departures from cities across California and the United States.