I found out why the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, BC, is one of Canada’s most iconic hotels and was named the #1 Best Canadian Hotel in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. From elegant rooms and Afternoon Tea to harbor views and fine dining, here’s my full review.
Few hotels are as synonymous with their city as the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, British Columbia. Overlooking the picturesque Inner Harbour, this historic institution in Canadian hospitality has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and travelers seeking an elevated experience for more than a century.
During my stay, I experienced firsthand why the Empress remains Victoria’s crown jewel. From its tulip-filled gardens and crystal chandelier-lit lobby to the iconic Afternoon Tea service, every corner embodies historical elegance. This isn’t just a place to stay, it’s the destination in itself.
Quick Hotel Overview
- Hotel Name: Fairmont Empress
- Star Rating: 4 Stars
- Location: Victoria, BC Inner Harbour
- Price Range: $$$ – $$$$ (luxury pricing, varies by season)
- Highlights: Iconic heritage building, Afternoon Tea, Fairmont Gold Lounge, harbor views, fine dining at Q at the Empress
- Best For: Couples, luxury travelers, history lovers, families
Location & Surroundings
Arriving at the Empress feels like stepping into a storybook. The tulip-lined entrance creates a postcard-perfect welcome, and the lobby’s crystal chandelier sets a timeless, elegant, and historical tone.
The Fairmont Empress enjoys one of Victoria’s best locations. Facing the Inner Harbour, it’s surrounded by the city’s most notable landmarks: the BC Parliament Buildings, the Royal British Columbia Museum, and downtown’s charming restaurants, shops, and cafés.
There is so much to enjoy within walking distance, including bike paths, waterfront walks, and boutique-lined streets with a thriving culinary scene. The area feels safe, vibrant, and distinctly European in atmosphere, particularly with the city’s architecture.
Rooms & Suites
Rooms at the Empress range from classic, historical rooms to modern Fairmont Gold suites. My room overlooked the harbor and was simultaneously elegant, inviting, and comfortable. Room features include:
- Plush bedding and luxury linens
- Espresso machines and tea selections
- Luxury bathrooms with premium toiletries and robes
- Elegant décor blending heritage charm with modern comfort
The harbor views were nothing short of beautiful and relaxing, especially at sunrise and sunset. Noise levels were low, offering restful nights.
Facilities & Amenities
The Fairmont Empress offers world-class facilities, befitting its reputation:
- Fairmont Gold Lounge: private check-in, curated canapés, and terrace views
- Willow Stream Spa: award-winning treatments and relaxation spaces
- Fitness center and pool
- Afternoon Tea Lounge: a Victoria institution
- Q at the Empress: historical, fine dining restaurant
For families, the hotel provides great kid-friendly amenities (check out their ‘Kids Rule the Castle’ vacation package), while business travelers will appreciate the meeting spaces.
Dining Experiences
The Empress is a culinary destination in its own right, offering exceptional dining options that celebrate its history and British Columbia’s local terrain.
Afternoon Tea: Perhaps the most famous in Canada for good reason, this service features Buckingham Palace’s scone recipe, delicate finger sandwiches, and desserts served on Royal Family-inspired china. My watermelon mint tea paired perfectly with scones, lemon curd, and clotted cream.
Q at the Empress: Dinner here was a highlight. My four-course tasting menu included pea-and-ricotta ravioli, Pacific halibut, smoked beef tenderloin, and elderflower rose trifle. Each course was paired with fine British Columbia wines, showcasing the region’s terroir.
Fairmont Gold Lounge: A quieter option for Fairmont Gold guests, serving light breakfasts, teas, and evening canapés with stunning harbor views.
Service, Staff, and Cleanliness
Check-in was seamless. As a Fairmont Gold guest, I was escorted to their private reception space for check-in, and then to the Gold Lounge, where I enjoyed their custom tea blends and pastries while overlooking the harbor.
The service was impeccable. Staff struck a lovely balance between polished professionalism and warm friendliness. They were knowledgeable about the hotel’s history and happy to offer local recommendations.
For a property over 100 years old, the Empress is meticulously maintained. The hotel was stunning, and my room was spotless. The heritage features are preserved with care, but everything feels refreshed and updated for modern comfort.
Price & Value for Money
A stay at the Fairmont Empress is a relatively larger investment, with rooms typically starting around CAD $400 per night, rising to CAD 1,000 or more for suites or Fairmont Gold accommodations, depending on the season.
Dining experiences, such as Afternoon Tea and dinner at Q, are additional but worth the splurge. With its amenities and overall experience, staying at the Fairmont Empress is well worth the cost.
Tip: For an experience without the full price tag, consider booking Afternoon Tea as a day visitor or dining at Q for a memorable evening.
Hotel Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Iconic hotel with unmatched history and prestige
- Prime location on Victoria’s Inner Harbour
- World-renowned Afternoon Tea
- Fairmont Gold Lounge adds to the experience.
Cons:
- Luxury pricing (not for budget travelers)
- Popular with tourists, and can feel busy at times
- Some standard rooms are on the smaller side (due to the hotel’s historic layout)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this hotel best for? Luxury travelers seeking history and elegance, couples on a romantic getaway, and families who appreciate a central location and kid-friendly amenities alongside luxury.
Is the Empress pet-friendly? Yes! Pets stay for free, and pet amenities are available upon request, including a bed basket, food and water dishes, dry food, bottled water, treats, pet waste disposal bags, and litter boxes.
Is Afternoon Tea included with your stay? No, Afternoon Tea is a separate experience, but it’s highly recommended.
Can you walk to attractions from the hotel? Definitely, the Parliament Buildings, Royal British Columbia Museum, and downtown shops and restaurants are all just minutes away.
Is the Empress family-friendly? Yes, they really are! They even have a Kids Rule the Castle package, in which your family can enjoy spacious accommodations, scavenger hunts, and other fun perks.
Does the property have parking? Yes, self-parking and valet parking options are available with an additional fee.
Fairmont Empress Hotel Review
My Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
The Fairmont Empress is a Victoria landmark and an experience in its own right. Whether you’re staying overnight, indulging in Afternoon Tea, or enjoying dinner at Q, the Empress delivers an unforgettable experience steeped in history and luxury.
My stay was part of a package with FRS Clipper, which included a seaplane and ferry ride to/from Seattle!
Katherine Woodward Ramer is a freelance digital creator and travel writer with a background in strategic communications, public health, and policy. She spent over ten years in the government and nonprofit sectors, where she specialized in making complex topics clear and engaging.
Now, she creates content for Wander Worthy, a travel publication focused on curiosity, connection, and mindful exploration. Her work highlights travel as a tool for personal growth, cultural understanding, and balanced living through compelling visual storytelling.
