Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria Exterior photo The photo shows a luxurious bathroom with a modern and elegant design. The color palette is primarily soft neutrals with contrasting dark gray marble accents.

The main features include a large, white freestanding bathtub positioned on the left side Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria Exterior photo The photo shows a well-equipped gym with a modern and sleek design. The space is primarily in grayscale, with subtle hints of warmer tones coming from some equipment and lighting. 

In the foreground, several treadmills are lined up, facing the vieweFairmont Empress Hotel Victoria Exterior photo A woman is relaxing in a hotel bed, enjoying a breakfast tray. She is lying comfortably on her side, smiling at the camera. She has short brown hair and is wearing a white bathrobe. 

On the tray, there's a bowl of colorful fruit salad, a small dish
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From139US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

721 Government Street, Victoria, Canada, V8W 1W5
-
Next to the Inner Harbour
Great
8.9
9.1
/10
4.3
4.4
/5

Location

Fairmont Empress is situated steps from Victoria's bustling downtown and commands stunning views over the Inner Harbour. The hotel's location makes it easy for guests to explore local attractions, including the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Travel to Victoria is convenient with Harbourside ferries, Helijet service, and nearby Victoria International Airport.

Accommodations

The hotel offers 431 guest rooms and suites, each with luxurious amenities and unique views over the Inner Harbour, the city, or the courtyard. The newly renovated Fairmont Gold rooms provide an elevated experience with private lounge access, delivering daily breakfast and evening canapés. Notable room options include family-friendly accommodations with cribs and kids' amenities readily available.

Dining

On-site dining at Fairmont Empress includes Q at the Empress, serving Pacific Northwest cuisine sourced from local farms and artisans. For a celebrated tradition, guests can partake in Afternoon Tea at The Empress, which has been a royal favorite for over a century. The Veranda offers outdoor dining with scenic harbor views, perfect for enjoying crafted cocktails and local fare.

Wellness

Fairmont Empress boasts Fairmont Spa, a tranquil haven offering an extensive menu of treatments inspired by the natural elements of Vancouver Island. Guests can rejuvenate with services such as registered massage therapy, customized facials, and the unique Spa Ritual, featuring a steam room and mineral bath. An indoor heated pool and a health club further enhance the wellness experience.

Kid-Friendly Offerings

Families can take advantage of the 'Kids Rule the Castle' package, which includes scavenger hunts and daily breakfast for children. The hotel provides specialized amenities such as cribs, baby high chairs, and kids' robes available upon request. Engaging activities like the royal Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea make it an enriching experience for young travelers.

Highlights

Location: Just steps from downtown

Rooms: 431 guest rooms with harbor views

Dining: Q at the Empress featuring local cuisine

Wellness: Fairmont Spa with extensive treatment options

Kid-Friendly: 'Kids Rule the Castle' package

Event Space: Over 18,000 square feet for meetings

“This historic landmark presents both iconic charm and up-to-date luxury, plus exclusive Fairmont Gold perks for an elevated experience. The location is ideal to explore Victoria's cultural sites, but open drug use nearby may be a concern; that said, the exceptional service and recent renovations could make for a memorable stay.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

Fairmont Empress Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Junior Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
410 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Coffee machine
Heating
Executive Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
410 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Heating
One Bedroom Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
455 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Coffee machine
Heating
Fairmont Gold One Bedroom Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
420 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Fairmont Empress Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • On-site car park
  • Handicap parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Lift
  • Currency exchange
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Barber shop
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Cycling

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Valet parking
  • Pet amenities available
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Children's menu
  • Children's pool

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Sun loungers
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Jacuzzi
  • Massage

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Direct dial telephone
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At the Fairmont Empress Hotel, dining is a celebration of the Pacific Northwest's rich bounty. Q at The Empress and the elegant Lobby Lounge each offer distinctive culinary experiences, infused with local flavors and sophisticated ambiance that invite guests to savor every moment.
Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria Restaurant photo The photo captures a luxurious and elegant interior, likely a hotel lobby or a high-end cafe. The space is characterized by tall, white Corinthian columns that create a sense of grandeur and spaciousness. These columns are interspersed throughout the
Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria Restaurant photo The photo shows a spacious and elegant restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The interior boasts high ceilings with exposed dark wooden beams, creating a sense of grandeur. Large, modern pendant lights with white fabric shades hang from the ce
Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria Restaurant photo The Crystal Ballroom

Q at The Empress

American, inspired by local ingredients
Ambiance
A refined setting that marries elegance with a modern touch, perfect for immersing in the island's culinary narrative.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include inventive bites such as avocado toast and egg white frittata featuring local mushrooms and vegetables, complemented by exceptional service and the freshest ingredients.
Reservation
Recommended.
Open for all-day dining; hours vary.

Lobby Lounge

Light bites and cocktails with a turn-of-the-century flair
Ambiance
An airy space that channels elegance and offers soothing live classical piano music, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
Key Offerings
Indulge in thoughtfully crafted cocktails served with exquisite accompaniments like gold-dusted macarons and honey pearl-topped strawberries, perfect for sharing over conversations.
Reservation
Not required.
Open for light snacks and drinks; hours vary.

Fairmont Empress Hotel Location

721 Government Street, Victoria, Canada, V8W 1W5
Map view
721 Government Street, Victoria, Canada, V8W 1W5
Nearby
Museum
Royal BC Museum
1300 ft
Public Building
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
1100 ft
Victoria
Inner Harbour
500 ft
Museum
Miniature World
1000 ft
Zoo
Victoria Bug Zoo
1200 ft
Victoria
Government Street
1100 ft
Square
Bastion Square
1700 ft
Shopping Area
The Bay Centre
1800 ft
St-Ann's Academy Office 835 Humboldt St 2nd Floor
St. Ann's Academy National Historic Site
1900 ft
Gallery
Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature
1200 ft
Government Street and Belleville Street
Emily Carr Statue
500 ft
Victoria
Wharf Street
1700 ft
Restaurants
Q at The Empress
100 ft
721 Government St The Fairmont Empress
The Tea Lobby
100 ft
721 Government St
Milestones
600 ft
812 Wharf St
The Old Spaghetti Factory
1100 ft
703 Douglas Street
Bartholomew's English-Style Pub
1300 ft
777 Douglas St Entrance on Humboldt Street
Steamship Grill & Bar
1100 ft
470 Belleville Street
Browns Socialhouse
1200 ft
809 Douglas St
Milano
800 ft
817 Government St
The Courtney Room
1100 ft
619 Courtney Street
Explore Victoria
Local Discoveries
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Royal BC Museum
Royal BC Museum
5 minutes' walk
A renowned cultural institution showcasing British Columbia's natural and human history, featuring engaging exhibits.
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
4 minutes' walk
Historic architecture and magnificent grounds; guided tours available to delve into the province's political heritage.
Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Park
19 minutes' walk
A sprawling urban park with gardens, walking trails, and the iconic Beacon Hill Children's Farm; perfect for picnics.
Fisherman's Wharf Park
Fisherman's Wharf Park
17 minutes' walk
Colorful floating homes and eateries; enjoy seals, artisan shops, and vibrant waterfront views in a fun atmosphere.
Kayaking Tours
5 minutes' drive
Guided kayaking tours explore local marine life and stunning coastlines; rentals available for independent adventurers.
Yoga at Beacon Hill Park
19 minutes' walk
Outdoor yoga offers serene surroundings; classes cater to various skill levels in a peaceful, natural setting.
Q at The Empress
Q at The Empress
1 minute' walk
An elegant dining experience focusing on Pacific Northwest cuisine with a seasonal menu; afternoon tea available.
Milestones
Milestones
3 minutes' walk
Contemporary dining with a diverse menu; signature dishes include wood-fired pizzas and gourmet salads in a lively vibe.
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia
13 minutes' walk
Fascinating exhibits on local maritime history; family-friendly activities and occasional special events enrich visits.
St Andrew's Cathedral
St Andrew's Cathedral
11 minutes' walk
A stunning Gothic revival church featuring beautiful stained glass; often hosts concerts and community events.
Getting around
City Centre
Victoria10 min  ·  2700 ft
Airports
Victoria Inner Harbour (YWH)6 min  ·  1700 ft
Victoria (YYJ)40 min  ·  16.4 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site at CAD 35 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, German, Spanish, Italian, Danish, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, Malay, Tagalog / Filipino
Year renovated:
2009
Number of floors:
8
Number of rooms:
394

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Fairmont Empress Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Fairmont Empress is often praised for its prime location, granting easy access to Victoria's attractions and being conveniently near the ferry from Seattle. Guests appreciate the comfortable and good-sized rooms and some have enjoyed the spa and pool facilities. While most find the hotel a great experience, a few guests have noted that the restaurant inside the hotel has limited options.
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Review score
Based on 1671 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
88%
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Location
9.8/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.6/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Comfortable beds
Historic hotel
Friendly staff
Cons
Small room
Poor view
Guest reviews
based on 5060 reviews
4/5
based on 1277 reviews
8.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Fairmont Empress Hotel
Are the room rates displayed in Canadian Dollars or US Dollars?
12 December 2023
Room rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars (CAD).
Can I find rooms with kitchenettes or microwaves at Fairmont Empress?
20 November 2023
One suite, the Governor General Suite, features a kitchenette. Additionally, while one room has a microwave, others can request one based on availability.
Is it possible to book adjoining rooms for my family, as we need at least three beds?
15 September 2023
Adjoining rooms are available by reserving a Fairmont King and a Deluxe with two Queen beds. Advance notice during booking will help confirm availability.
What can you tell me about the spa services offered at Fairmont Empress?
22 October 2023
For detailed information and bookings regarding spa services, please visit the Willow Stream Spa website.
What perks come with a reservation for a Fairmont Gold room?
5 January 2024
A reservation for a Fairmont Gold room includes complimentary breakfast for two, evening appetizers, access to a private lounge, and personalized concierge services, creating a hotel-within-a-hotel experience.
Are cats allowed to stay at the hotel?
14 November 2023
Yes, cats are allowed. However, they cannot be left unattended in the room and are restricted from dining or spa areas.
Are the hotel's amenities, including the pool and spa, currently operational?
30 October 2023
Yes, the amenities are open, though the Willow Stream Spa currently operates Wednesday through Sunday.
Is there parking available at the hotel, and is it complimentary?
18 October 2023
Parking is available at a cost of $33.00 per night, as the hotel does not offer complimentary parking.
What's the difference between a city view room and a Fairmont city view room?
25 November 2023
There is no difference between the two room types; they are essentially the same.
Is breakfast included in the room rate for my stay?
18 December 2023
The standard room rate does not include breakfast, which can be ordered a la carte.
At what time does breakfast begin at Fairmont Empress?
23 February 2024
Breakfast service starts daily at 6:30 AM in Restaurant Q or through In-Room Dining.

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