FAIRMONT EMPRESS HOTEL, Victoria

Fairmont Empress Hotel - A historic luxury hotel with award-winning dining and spa facilities overlooking Victoria's Inner Harbour

Overlooking Victoria's Inner Harbour, the 5-star Fairmont Empress Hotel features 431 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, many with views of the water, city, or courtyard. Accommodations include modern marble bathrooms with rainfall showers, and select suites offer separate living areas. The hotel's Willow Stream Spa provides locally inspired treatments such as the Salish Sea Vitality scrub and massage. Dining options include Q at the Empress, serving Pacific Northwest cuisine, and the Lobby Lounge, where Afternoon Tea features 21 loose-leaf tea varieties, scones with house-made strawberry jam, and pastries served on china gifted by Queen Elizabeth II. Fairmont Gold rooms offer exclusive amenities like a private lounge, complimentary breakfast, and evening canapés. The hotel is steps from the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and a short walk from Beacon Hill Park. Business amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, and meeting spaces accommodating up to 1200 guests. Families can request cribs, high chairs, and kid-friendly activities, while pets stay free with custom amenities.

Pros

The award-winning Willow Stream Spa offers unique treatments like the Salish Sea Vitality scrub, using local ingredients.

Afternoon Tea at the Lobby Lounge includes house-made strawberry jam and pastries served on historic china.

Fairmont Gold accommodations provide exclusive perks such as a private lounge and complimentary breakfast.

The hotel's central location places it within walking distance of landmarks like the British Columbia Parliament Buildings.

Pet-friendly policies include custom beds and no additional fees for pets.

Cons

Valet parking costs $51 per night, with no complimentary options.

Some rooms face the courtyard or city, offering less scenic views compared to harbour-facing accommodations.