Fairmont Heritage Place at Ghirardelli Square

Although Ghirardelli Square is a National Historic Landmark, Fairmont Heritage Place isn’t exactly in the center of San Francisco’s action. The hotel makes up for that in some part by having a house car available to transport guests within a two-mile radius of the hotel. The car is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The bellman can always call a taxi for you if the car is unavailable, and the Powell Street cable car line is a few short blocks away.

All San Francisco attractions, from Golden Gate Park to Union Square, are accessible (if not exactly within walking distance) from Fairmont Heritage Place.

If you have a few days put these on your list: Chinatown (it’s the largest outside of Asia). The 210-foot Coit Tower atop Telegraph Hill offers panoramic city views (when it’s not fogged in. And the deYoung Museum blends art and architecture in a natural setting.

If you want to sample a little of this and a little of that, head for the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street. It’s a vast gourmet marketplace.

Although Fisherman’s Wharf is San Francisco’s top attraction, it’s touristy. Sophisticated couples might enjoy North Beach, with its Italian restaurants, clubs, and famous City Lights bookstore more.

One way to see multiple San Francisco attractions without overspending is by acquiring a CityPass, good for everything from transportation to admissions to 15 percent off Bloomingdale’s purchases.

Popular day trips from the city include wine country tours and visits to Muir Woods, home of the giant redwoods.