Perched majestically on Victoria’s Inner Harbour, The Fairmont Empress is more than a hotel—it’s a landmark of Canadian heritage and refined elegance. Since opening its doors in 1908, this iconic property has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers from around the world with its dedication impeccable service, historic elegance and charm.
A Grand Dame Reimagined
Following a 64-million dollar restoration in 2017, The Fairmont Empress has undergone a breathtaking transformation, seamlessly blending its historic grandeur with contemporary sophistication. This legendary hotel—often referred to as “Canada’s Castle on the Coast”—has preserved its timeless charm while embracing modern luxury, offering guests an experience that honors its storied past while catering to today’s discerning travelers.
Crowned as one of the 21 Most Iconic Hotels in the World, The Fairmont Empress stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and refined elegance. The meticulous restoration revitalized the hotel, but left classic touches, from the grand staircase to the world-renowned Afternoon Tea, served in the hotel’s opulent Tea Lobby since 1908.
The 250,000-crystal chandelier, named Twill Flowers by designer Tana Dvorakova is nothing short of stunning. Depicting rose petals found in the gardens, the lighting sculpture is made by an original “Twill” technique of weaving glass beads into fabric like textures.
Today, the hotel strikes the perfect balance between heritage and innovation, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs, luxury seekers, and modern explorers alike. Whether admiring the Inner Harbour views from a meticulous guest room or sipping a craft cocktail on the terrace, guests are immersed in an experience where every detail tells a story.
Dining & Afternoon Tea Fit for Royalty
No visit to The Fairmont Empress is complete without indulging in its legendary Afternoon Tea, a tradition since 1908. Served in the historic Lobby Lounge, guests enjoy a variety of delicate finger sandwiches, house-made scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, sweets and an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas from the world’s top 10% tea producers. Fun fact: During the summer, Fairmont Empress services more cups of team than most hotels in London.
As the sun sets, don’t miss on the return of Sunset Sips at Fairmont Empress- where guests can once again indulge in the experience of tea-infused cocktails and mocktails presented in elegant glass teapots in the Lobby Lounge. The Empress 1908 Gin, a signature spirit distilled in Victoria and tinted with the hotel’s iconic purple hue, takes center stage in craft cocktails like the Empress Gin & Tonic.
For a more contemporary culinary experience, Q at The Empress offers Pacific Northwest cuisine with locally sourced ingredients from partnerships with local farmers.
The Veranda is the perfect place to watch the world go by over a cocktail or light bite. During the wintertime, cozy up by the fire and watch the twinkling holiday lights.
THE BENGAL, the much beloved historic lounge of the Empress Hotel is currently undergoing a transformation, and will be back in 2025.
Accommodations
The 431 beautifully-appointed guest rooms and suites feature contemporary comforts like Nespresso coffee makers, pillow top beds, and 47-inch flat screen TV’s, while highlighting classic touches like rich wood paneling and elegant detailing. The renovation also includes the addition of 22 new Fairmont Gold guest rooms, bringing the total to 88 Fairmont Gold Rooms.
Wellness & Exploration
After a day of exploring Victoria, the Fairmont Spa provides a sanctuary of relaxation with luxurious treatments, featuring a comprehensive menu of facials, massage treatments, body scrubs, detox wraps, and more. Don’t miss the ‘Spa Ritual,’ where you cycle between the pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room. Personalized experiences like Face Yoga, guided polar dips in the ocean, and transformative meditative and sound therapy workshops are also available upon request. The health club features updates equipment including bikes, ellipticals, treadmills, stair climbers, free weights and weight machines, as well as an indoor heated pool, whirlpool and sauna.
Across the street from The Empress is not only the stunning parliament building, but the Royal BC Museum. As one of the oldest continually operating museums in Canada, the RBCM cares for more than 7 million objects, belongings, specimens, including millions of significant government documents and records; substantial photographic, audio and video collections, art work and an extensive library of publications.
For adventure seekers, the concierge can arrange bucket-list worthy whale-watching tours, a visit to Butchart Gardens or Craigdarraoch Castle or the Butterfly Gardens.
Fairmont Gold: The Ultimate Luxury Experience
For travelers seeking an elevated stay, Fairmont Gold offers an intimate, VIP experience with personalized service and exclusive amenities. The hotel-within-a-hotel offers exclusive perks like:
Private Check-In & Dedicated Concierge – Bypass the front desk and enjoy a seamless arrival in the Fairmont Gold Lounge, as well as a dedicated Fairmont Gold concierge team from 7am-10pm daily.
Access to the Fairmont Gold Lounge – A serene 5,500 sq ft retreat offering stunning harbor views, outdoor terrace, complimentary refreshments, and a business center.
Complimentary Breakfast & Afternoon Canapés – Start the day with a gourmet breakfast from 7am-10:30am and unwind in the evening with hors d’oeuvres and premium beverages from 5-7pm, as well as dessert service from 7-9pm.
Evening Turndown Service – Return to a perfectly prepared room with luxurious touches.
Upgraded Bath Amenities – Featuring Le Labo’s exclusive Rose 31 line.
Priority Reservations & Special Requests – From securing the best tables at Q at The Empress to arranging private yacht charters, the Gold team ensures every detail is perfected.
Sea & Sky Package
Getting to Victoria doesn’t have to be challenging with the Victoria Clipper Sea & Sky Package. Travel from Seattle with two unique forms of transportation- a 45-minute Kenmore Air seaplane flight to Victoria and Victoria Clipper fast ferry back to Seattle. Get your camera ready for the panoramic views on the flight to Victoria, complete with harbor water landing, steps from the Fairmont Empress. Find more natural beauty on the water on the return through the Salish Sea.
A Stay Beyond Compare
The Fairmont Empress is more than a place to rest—it’s a destination where history, luxury, and personalized service converge. Whether you’re sipping tea in the Lobby Lounge, enjoying the exclusivity of Fairmont Gold, or simply soaking in the harbor views from your room, this iconic hotel promises an unforgettable experience. For those who appreciate the finest in travel, The Fairmont Empress is a must-visit jewel on Canada’s west coast. Plan your stay at Fairmont.com/Empress.
