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Fairmont
Photograph: Courtesy Booking.comFairmont

The 8 most romantic hotels in San Francisco to keep the spark alive

For a night (or several) to remember, get a room at one of the most romantic hotels in San Francisco

Alex Floyd-Douglass
Written by
Daisy Barringer
Contributor
Alex Floyd-Douglass
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The views, the food, the Bay Lights, the rolling fog ... San Francisco goes toe to toe with the very best romantic cities in Europe. While many date nights in San Francisco can end after the classic combo of dinner and a movie, couples that want to kick the romance up a notch (or two), should extend the evening with a stay in one of these luxury hotels. Whether you're seeking a historic inn with bay views and hiking trails or a lush downtown hotel with butler service is more your speed, these top romantic hotels will turn anyone’s one-night stay into a happily ever after.

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Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Romantic San Francisco hotels

  • Hotels
  • Yerba Buena
  • price 4 of 4

This landmark hotel in downtown San Francisco opened in 1909 – where the interior design work in the communal spaces is exquisite (think the Titanic but with fewer icebergs). The guest rooms have been renovated to host a stylish, spacious feel, while crystal chandeliers line the halls. If you and bae looking for a weekend of luxury, this is the romantic hotel for you.

Mood? Understated elegance.
Budget range? A wide variety of options are available.
Time Out tip: Order the Palace's signature crab salad at the Garden Court during lunch, which comes with a Green Goddess salad dressing – said to have been invented in the Palace Hotel’s kitchen in 1923.

  • Hotels
  • Chain hotels
  • Nob Hill
  • price 3 of 4

Everything about this uber-lavish hotel screams San Francisco. From the Julia Morgan-designed building and stunning views over the bay to the state-of-the-art wellness spa and the iconic tiki bar in the basement, the Fairmont can satisfy all your needs for a romantic getaway. The best part? All rooms come with a private bathroom, flatscreen TVs, Le Labo toiletries and a marble bath to wind down the night in. 

Mood? Next-level opulence. 
Budget range? 
Surprisingly affordable. 
Time Out tip
: Don’t miss dinner or drinks at the iconic Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, a tiki bar with a floating band in a lagoon, surprise thunderstorms and mai tais served in fake coconuts.

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  • Hotels
  • Tenderloin
  • price 4 of 4

If you're hoping to be right in the middle of the action for your romantic getaway, head to the Four Seasons Hotel. This five-star hotel offers endless amenities in an unbeatable location in the heart of the city, close to Union Square, SoMa and the Financial District. In your room, expect super plush beds and a glistening marble bath as yet another wonderful addition to enjoy at your leisure. 

Mood? Dreamy decor.
Budget range? 
Mid-range to high, depending on the time of year.
Time Out tip:
The Den is a monthly cocktail series that pays homage to SF’s original speakeasies. Gain entrance by emailing theden@fourseasons.com to get the password.

  • Hotels
  • Spa hotels
  • SoMa
  • price 3 of 4

Sophisticated and chic, this hotel is a seductive mix of mid-century modern and casual urban cool – the $25 million renovation from Hotel Vitale into the 1 Hotel might have something to do with it. But most of all, it's the spectacular vista including San Francisco Bay that magnetizes guests to the hotel – and who can blame them? You'll also catch a glimpse of the iconic clock tower, Alcatraz Island and the 1898 Ferry Building on the sweeping shoreline.

Mood? Waterfront living.
Budget range? 
A decent price for an incredible offering. 
Time Out tip:
 1 Hotel's rooftop terrace is the perfect way to enjoy the skyline after a day of wandering the city (and eating a lot). 

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  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Pacific Heights
  • price 3 of 4

This boutique hotel in posh Pac Heights is the perfect option for the couple who wants to be away from the chaos of downtown but doesn’t want to sacrifice luxury or style. At Hotel Drisco, the rooms feel like actual bedrooms and are furnished with Egyptian cotton sheets, goose-down duvets and sleep machines. Looking for a romantic night in? Head to the hotel's free wine and cheese evening and feed each other grapes in style. 

Mood? Old-world architecture.
Budget range? 
On the pricier side.
Time Out tip:
 So good we had to say it again: the complimentary evening wine reception is not to be missed. There are local California wines, artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, fresh fruit and hot hors d’oeuvres, including delicious meatballs that could definitely spoil dinner.

  • Hotels
  • Chinatown
  • price 4 of 4

There's no doubt that the Ritz-Carlton is the picture of opulence – especially in San Francisco. The landmark hotel, housed in a mansion atop Nob Hill, is guaranteed to make you feel like a VIP – with butler service, a wine-tasting lounge and complimentary car service. Ready to wine and dine with your significant other in this iconic backdrop? Get it booked.

Mood? Iconic glam.
Budget range? 
Pricey, but you may get a good deal if you book early enough. 
Time Out tip:
A complimentary house car is available for trips within one mile of the hotel – enquire at reception. 

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  • Hotels
  • Yerba Buena
  • price 3 of 4

The St. Regis has always been – and continues to be – the embodiment of a luxury hotel in San Francisco. With complimentary butler service for each suite, it's the perfect retreat for couples who don’t want to lift a finger during their stay. And we're gonna hedge a bet that might appeal to you, too. Room service from the tub, anyone?

Mood? Top-notch luxury.
Budget range? 
Veryyyy well priced.
Time Out tip:
Make a reservation for the Regis Art of Tea – and be sure to add a bottle of bubbly, or two.

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • price 4 of 4

This luxurious resort – which was once a former military barracks – is located right over the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito. Cavallo Point offers its guests sweeping views of the Bay Area and a whole bunch of fancy amenities to do with your partner: think cooking classes, guided bike tours and free morning yoga. But the real deal-sealer is at the Healing Arts Center and Spa where you can enjoy a heated outdoor meditation pool and an array of facial and body treatments on your doorstep. Dreamy. 

Mood? Full-blown resort vibes.
Budget range? Surprisingly well priced. 
Time Out tip:
Sign up for the Chef’s Counter – an exclusive chef-driven dining experience where guests sip on wine and watch and learn.

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