You'll be in a fantastic location at Fairmont Empress, just a 5-minute walk from Maritime Museum of British Columbia and British Columbia Parliament Building. Guests can visit the spa to be pampered with deep-tissue massages, aromatherapy, or hydrotherapy, and Q at the Empress, one of 2 restaurants, serves American cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. An indoor pool, a bar/lounge, and a health club are other highlights at this luxurious hotel. Fellow travelers say great things about the comfortable beds and helpful staff.
Reviews
9.29.2 out of 10
Wonderful
Popular amenities
Parking available
Free WiFi
Main amenities (12)
Daily housekeeping
2 restaurants and bar/lounge
Full-service spa
Indoor pool
Breakfast available
Health club
Sauna
Steam room
Valet parking
Self parking
Children's pool
Hot tub
For families (6)
Children's pool
Private bathroom
Television
Garden
Terrace
Daily housekeeping
The current price is $303
$303
$355 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Why we love this property
Work and play perfected
This centrally located hotel features a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms. Guests can unwind at the spa with rejuvenating massages and treatments.
Dining delights
The hotel features 2 restaurants serving American cuisine with garden and ocean views. Vegan, vegetarian, and local options enhance dining.
Spa escape
The full-service spa offers aromatherapy, body scrubs, and couples treatments daily. A garden, sauna, and hot tub complete this waterfront wellness haven.
British Columbia Parliament Building - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Chinatown - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
Getting around
Victoria, BC (YWH-Victoria Inner Harbour Seaplane Base) - 1 min drive
Victoria Intl. Airport (YYJ) - 32 min drive
Port Angeles, WA (CLM-William R. Fairchild Intl.) - 122 min drive
Roche Harbor, WA (RCE) - 16.5 miles/26.6 km
Friday Harbor, WA (FRD) - 17.2 miles/27.7 km
Friday Harbor, WA (FBS-Friday Harbor Sea Plane Base) - 18.1 miles/29.2 km
Lopez Island, WA (LPS) - 20.3 miles/32.7 km
Deer Harbor, WA (DHB-Deer Harbor Seaplane Base) - 21.7 miles/34.8 km
Ferry terminal shuttle (surcharge)
Cruise terminal shuttle (surcharge)
Restaurants
Milestones - 2 min walk
The Sticky Wicket Bar & Restaurant - 6 min walk
Browns Socialhouse Victoria Falls - 4 min walk
The Old Spaghetti Factory - 4 min walk
Q At The Empress - 1 min walk
About this property
Fairmont Empress
You'll be in a fantastic location at Fairmont Empress, just a 5-minute walk from Maritime Museum of British Columbia and British Columbia Parliament Building. Guests can visit the spa to be pampered with deep-tissue massages, aromatherapy, or hydrotherapy, and Q at the Empress, one of 2 restaurants, serves American cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. An indoor pool, a bar/lounge, and a health club are other highlights at this luxurious hotel. Fellow travelers say great things about the comfortable beds and helpful staff.
At a glance
Hotel size
431 rooms
Arranged over 8 floors
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Express check-in/out available
Early check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 19
Check-out time is 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
Special check-in instructions
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 19
Children
Up to 3 children (17 years old and younger) stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
No cribs (infant beds)
Pets
Pets stay free (2 total)
Service animals welcome
Restrictions apply*
Food and water bowls available
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
WiFi (speed: 25+ Mbps) in rooms*
Parking
Onsite self parking (CAD 39 per day; includes in/out privileges)
Onsite valet parking (CAD 53.00 per day; includes in/out privileges)
Electric vehicle charging point on site
Transfers
Cruise terminal shuttle*
Ferry terminal shuttle*
Other information
Designated smoking areas
Property amenities
Food and drink
Full breakfast (surcharge) each morning 6:30 AM–11:00 AM
2 restaurants
Bar/lounge
Coffee/tea in a common area
Water dispenser
Traveling with children
Children stay free (see details)
Children's pool
Children's menu
What to do
Shopping
Access to nearby indoor pool
Ecotours nearby
Golf lessons nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Kayaking nearby
Scooter/moped rentals nearby
Working away
24-hour business center
Meeting rooms
Conference center (22600 square feet of space)
Services
24-hour front desk
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Limo or town car service
Dry cleaning/laundry services
Hair salon
Free newspapers in lobby
Luggage storage
Wedding services
Multilingual staff
Porter/bellhop
Bicycle rentals
Pool loungers
Facilities
Built in 1908
ATM/banking
Safe-deposit box at front desk
Garden
Picnic area
Terrace
Health club
An indoor pool
Art gallery on site
Designer stores on site
Shopping mall on site
Bicycle parking
Full-service spa
Hot tub
Sauna
Massage/treatment rooms
Steam room
Locally sourced food is prioritized
At least 80% organic food
Vegan dining options
Vegetarian dining options
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Locally-owned & organized tours & activities
Local artist showcase
Some profits reinvested in community and sustainability
Renewable energy used
Uses some LED lighting
Comprehensive food waste policy
Waste recycling policy
No plastic soda bottles
No plastic coffee stirrers
No plastic drinking straws
No plastic water bottles
Reusable cups only
Reusable tableware only
Banquet hall
Edwardian architecture
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible
Room amenities
Be entertained
32-inch flat-screen TV
Cable TV channels
Pay movies
Home comfort
Air conditioning
Portable fan
Minibar
Coffee/tea maker
Electric kettle
Bathrobes and slippers
Iron/ironing board
Window screens
Sleep well
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Down comforter
Blackout drapes/curtains
Premium bedding
Pillowtop mattress
Freshen up
Private bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Designer toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels
Toothbrush and toothpaste (on request)
Stay connected
Desk
Free newspapers
WiFi (surcharge) (speed of 25+ Mbps)
Phone
Desk chair
More
Daily housekeeping
In-room safe
Eco-friendly toiletries
Eco-friendly cleaning products provided
Energy-saving switches
Uses some LED lighting
Recycling
Water-efficient showers only
Special features
Spa
The onsite spa has 11 treatment rooms including rooms for couples. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, sports massages, and Swedish massages. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy and hydrotherapy. The spa is equipped with a sauna, a hot tub, and a steam room. The spa is open daily. Children under 18 years old are not allowed in the spa without adult supervision. Guests under 18 years old are not allowed in the spa. There are hot springs/mineral springs on site.
Dining
Q at the Empress - Overlooking the ocean and garden, this restaurant specializes in American cuisine and serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Guests can order drinks at the bar and enjoy alfresco dining (weather permitting). A children's menu is available. Reservations are required. Open daily.
Lobby Lounge - Overlooking the ocean and garden, this restaurant specializes in American cuisine and serves lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar. Open daily.
Q Bar - Overlooking the ocean and garden, this bar specializes in American cuisine and serves lunch, dinner, and light fare. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining (weather permitting). Open daily.
Awards and affiliations
Sustainability Certifications
This property is certified by these third-party sustainability certification schemes: Biosphere and Green Key Global. For more information on what these certifications require and verify, please visit their websites.
The property is a member of Historic Hotels of the World.
Fees & policies
Optional extras
WiFi is available in guestrooms for CAD 14.95 per night (rates may vary)
Full breakfast is offered for an extra charge of approximately CAD 20 to 40 for adults, and CAD 10 to 20 for children
Early check-in can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)
Late check-out can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)
Pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Parking
Self parking costs CAD 39 per day with in/out privileges
Valet parking costs CAD 53.00 per day with in/out privileges
Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)
Pool access available from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Children under 16 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, health club, fitness facility, or hot tub without adult supervision
Guests under 18 years old are not allowed in the spa, and guests under 18 years old are only allowed with adult supervision
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments and can be made by contacting the property before arrival at the number on the booking confirmation
Policies
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
This property does not have elevators.
This property uses some solar energy. Some water is reused through a grey water recycling system.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards on site.
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation.
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards and cash.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club, JCB International
Cashless transactions are available.
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of ALLSAFE (Accor Hotels).
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property. The policies listed are provided by the property.
The photos are representative of rooms offered and may differ from the actual room received.
Also known as
Empress Fairmont
Fairmont Empress
Fairmont Empress Hotel
Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria
Fairmont Empress Victoria
Empress Hotel Victoria
Fairmont Hotel Empress
Fairmont Hotel Victoria
Fairmont Victoria
The Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria
Victoria Fairmont
The Fairmont Empress
Fairmont Empress Hotel
Fairmont Empress Victoria
Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria
Frequently asked questions
Does Fairmont Empress offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, Fairmont Empress does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at Fairmont Empress?
Yes, there's an indoor pool and a children's pool. Guests have pool access from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Are pets allowed at Fairmont Empress?
Yes, pets stay free, with a limit of 2 total. Food and water bowls are available. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
Is parking offered on site at Fairmont Empress?
Yes. Self parking costs CAD 39 per day. Valet parking costs CAD 53.00 per day. Electric vehicle charging is available.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Fairmont Empress?
Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. There's a charge for early check-in (subject to availability). Check-out time is 11 AM. Late check-out is available for a charge (subject to availability). Express check-in and check-out and contactless check-out are available.
Is there an onsite casino at Fairmont Empress?
No, this hotel doesn't have a casino, but Elements Casino (13-min drive) is nearby.
What is there to do at Fairmont Empress and nearby?
Have fun with activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking, and practice your swing at the nearby golf course. Additional recreation nearby includes ecotours. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and soothe your senses in the hot tub. Fairmont Empress also has an indoor pool, a sauna, and a steam room, as well as a picnic area, a garden, and access to a nearby indoor pool.
Are there restaurants at or near Fairmont Empress?
Yes, there are 2 onsite restaurants, featuring alfresco dining, American cuisine, and garden views.
What's the area around Fairmont Empress like?
Fairmont Empress is in Downtown Victoria, a short 1-minute drive from Victoria, BC (YWH-Victoria Inner Harbour Seaplane Base) and 6 minutes' walk from Victoria Harbour. Travelers say the area is walkable and good for shopping.
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Reviews
Fairmont Empress Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
9.6
Cleanliness
9.4
Amenities
9.6
Staff & service
9.4
Property conditions & facilities
Guest review summary
What guests liked
The restaurant at this property offers exceptional food, beautiful ambiance, and outstanding service. (130 reviews)
Breakfast was consistently described as fresh, varied, and excellent with many reviewers praising the quality and selection of options. (56 reviews)
The spa experience was luxurious and relaxing, with many guests praising the treatments and staff. (34 reviews)
Our stay at the Empress Hotel was amazing, as always. Incredible and historic building along the beautiful harbor. The rooms and grounds are so well maintained. We just love this hotel and location.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 28, 2026
Be sure to book a harbor view room to make the most of your stay. The hotel and grounds are amazing. Highly recommend.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 20, 2026
I cannot say enough about how beautiful the hotel and the grounds are. The staff were exceptional and the room was very clean and comfortable. I highly recommend the onsite restaurant and bar, the Q, as well.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 24, 2026
Fairmont Empress is a truly beautiful hotel with an extraordinary lounge and superb gardens. The location is excellent, and the entire property exudes an elegant, aristocratic vibe. We had a sensational stay and will gladly return!
Verified review
8/10 Very good
Aug 16, 2026
Great Location, love having the use of a courtesy car to take us to dinner, Loved the area that was roped off for the David Foster 40th Anniversary concert, that we had no idea was happening - Austin our server at Q was amazing - hope to return someday
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
May 19, 2026
Amazing stay, super friendly staff, and service was quick.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 20, 2026
Great breakfast and the best location.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 15, 2026
Everything was absolutely amazing about our stay; the room was fantastic, the staff were lovely & the lounge was incredible!
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 18, 2026
Luxurious hotel. We enjoyed our stay. The staff were wonderful.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 6, 2026
Excellent location and staff!
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 6, 2026
The Empress is a truly great hotel. The staff was amazing, the rooms were very nice - comfortable and clean, and the meals we had were delicious with amazing service. The location is perfect right in the middle of the city. All of the staff are so friendly all the time and willing to help you out and go the extra mile.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 3, 2026
Excellent location, beautiful historic building
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
May 25, 2026
Clean room nice staff made our check in early goes smooth and fast.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
May 23, 2026
Amazing location. Great hotel. The afternoon tea was a highlight.
Verified review
8/10 Very good
Apr 16, 2026
Great location
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
May 26, 2026
The staff are first class, from check in to housekeeping and all those in between
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 21, 2026
Beautiful stay at the Empress—lovely hotel with wonderful service and dining. Easy walk to the harbor and many restaurants.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
May 22, 2026
Love the property and the history behind it!
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 6, 2026
The Empress is such a great hotel. Historic and beautiful. Staff and service is top shelf. Will stay there again. Amazing location and service make it out first choice in Victoria.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
May 24, 2026
A beautiful location and lovely hotel. I would recommend.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 14, 2026
Completely lived up to a five star, classic, elegant hotel and then some. World class by all measures; have never been more impressed with a staff's attitude, and helpfulness. A must-stay for Victoria lifetime memories.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 2, 2026
A beautiful property with great amenities and helpful staff.
Verified review
8/10 Very good
Apr 3, 2026
Staff were exceptionally friendly.
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 3, 2026
Clean room, very friendly staff
Verified review
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 23, 2026
Had a wonderful stay the Fairmount Empress Gold. So enjoyed the Breakfast selection.