Fairmont Empress in Victoria

Historical hotel and fabulous guest experience. The room is spacious and equipped with latest technology to make my life easier. The afternoon tea is worth the money spent.

We stayed at the Fairmont to celebrate our 42nd wedding anniversary and could not have had a better time. The rooms are cozy and well appointed. The staff is friendly and accommodating. Our meals in the hotel were delicious. We brought our two small pups and they were also treated like royalty. We plan to indulge ourselves by staying at your wonderful hotel many more times.

We enjoyed our stay very much. The staff were very nice and helpful all of the times we interacted with them. We always enjoy the stays and this time since we upgraded to the gold room which we enjoyed very much.When all the ferry services were cancelled and we had already checked out of our and were on our way to Vancouver when we had to return to Victoria when the service was canceled due to the weather system going on there. We went back to the hotel and asked for a room for another night. Your staff worked to make that happen and yes we enjoyed another night with Fairmont. Thanks you and your staff for making this happen for us. Noteworthy details: the staff and the gold room rocked.

A must to stay hotel! Rooms: Great room with excellent view! Service is also very good! Rooms : 5/5 |

Amazing staff and amazing Hotel.

Hotel was nice, staff were great, breakfast was nice and fast. However room wasnt as nice as I expected, bathroom door didnt close proper, shower could have been better. Other than that it was acceptable

We had an excellent experience here! The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, and the room service was fabulous. The building has a rich historic charm, and our room was spotless. Crib is available to request, baby-friendly hotel!

Food and drinks: Everything we ordered, from food to drinks, was delicious! The popcorn served at the bar area, with smoked steak salt seasoning, is addictive! Loved it! Will definitely visit again. Noteworthy details: Ambiance is amazing!

Everything excellent Rooms: Very comfortable Nearby activities: It is in the center, museums, shops and in front of a marina. chinatown Safety: Completely Walkability: Yes, the area invites you to walk, there are even pedestrian streets Food and drinks: You have to reserve for dinner, delicious and varied breakfast. All kinds of drinks Noteworthy details: Valet parking, indoor pool, gym... Etc.

The Gold reception team was outstanding. Room key machine was down so keys were not available at check in and team took amazing care of us. Lounge is great. Rooms and view were outstanding. The only thing that wasnt excellent was bar service on Saturday night. We went for desert and a drink and service was terribly slow. Not sure if it was unexpectedly busy, or they had staff call out sick, but many patrons were surprised at the slow service - but the staff was doing their best and incredibly friendly.

During our stay, we had an issue with the plumbing in our bathroom. The hotel assessed the issue and began working on it immediately. They tried to be as friendly and helpful as possible and even gave us a day room to use as we had a 9 month old baby that needed a nap. The problem, unfortunately could not be resolved and the Manager on duty, Sougath was as helpful and accommodating as possible. This was probably a busier weekend for them being near Christmas and had multiple events going on and they upgraded us to a suite for the inconvenience. Everyone involved was extremely attentive and made a possible bad experience into a very enjoyable one. We will be back for our yearly Christmas trip next year. Thank you Sougath and all of the team!

Wow. Just wow.

We stayed here as our work Christmas party was here. We had a double room, that was small and nothing special for a 350 price tag. I have bad allergies and couldnt figure out why I was so congested, only to find dust and cobwebs all over the walls and ceiling. We also only were staying for one night and found it very suspicious that housekeeping came in our room at 5pm when we had left. Front desk said thats what they do now. Not sure why they found the need to come in when we had only just check in an hour before they came in. Will take a cab next time since we are local and no where near the overpriced dusty room price tag

Don t waste money for their Afternoon Tea. Overrated!! Disappointing. I went to visit Victoria for the first time and made this Empress Afternoon Tea part of my experience as seen on social media. But it was not worth it and for $109 plus tip? So disappointed. My server Yousief was so rude. The moment I opened the menu to choose my tea at least, he then told me Uhm you know, this is a set menu you don t even have to check the menu At the back of my mind I was like, Yeah man I know, but I m choosing my tea. Hence the point of afternoon tea for $109 right? But I just let it pass so as not to ruin my special day. It was for my birthday, I was hoping I can make it special for my special day but this rude guy just made me regret I chose to waste my money for this. After that, I was at least trying to enjoy the ambiance. But this guy was so in a rush! He kept interrupting me in my table like 3 times asking me if I was not done yet? Like really? I believe for the price, I am paying for the ambiance too. At least let me take my time. It is not a fastfood dining after all. His service did not even deserve a tip. The petit fours were not even great, nothing really special. To mention some there were just ham sandwich, turkey, and egg tart for your $109. In total $109 + tip they charged me $135 for a lame food and poor service in that place. Not worth your money and the effort for reservation. Skip it and save your money, Starbucks have better food and service than this place. Food and drinks: Afternoon Tea not worth the money!

All of the staff were incredibly kind, helpful and provided a wonderful stay and experience. We brought our bikes and the valet was so nice when we needed to get them from storage. Its a wonderful feature for people who want to bike around Victoria! Thanks to everyone at the Fairmont Empress.

Fantastic old Hotel in prime position in Victoria. Great service and probably the best place to stay. Easy walk to everything and great views over the harbour.

A great night to unwind in the gold lounge and spa. The staff on the gold floor are amazing as are the staff in general. Comfy harbour view room. The amenities in the gold floor lounge are great.

Beautiful, friendly, great service

My dog Sidney was diagnosed with cancer. We had radiation treatments booked in Victoria. Upon our arrival I received news that my pup sustained a fracture to her leg and may need to be euthanized. I literally spent 4 lonely days crying in my hotel room wondering what outcome my pup will have. Over those days I was met with compassion, care and empathy. Dino - immediately sourced our wheels for Sid so she could get around the hotel/out for pee breaks. This was a logistical error on my part and he problem solved this the moment I arrived. Sid and I are forever grateful since movements were precarious. Dino offered me support, kind words, motivation and emotional support anytime he saw us. It s amazing how animals can bond humans. You let all staff know Sid would need a little extra attention. Mark - I know I walked into the hotel joking saying you can t please anyone and when I came back to the front desk you were nothing but kind and exceptional to deal with. I needed to move rooms and you helped me navigate that on the fly to a more disabled dog friendly room and helping me find easy access to get her out to grass. She loves the gingerman it s her new favorite. Bhoomika - you didn t skip a beat when I needed a new room and logistically figured this out during what seemed like rush how. Sidney appreciated the room to navigate while needing lots of assistance. Thanks for the kind words on the note. Devansh - you picked up on my sad vibes and went above and beyond to make sure Sidney and I were safe and healthy. I hadn t eaten and only cried since arrival on day one you took note of that. You were aware Sid wasn t feeling well and helped us source healthy meals during her radiation treatments. I also likely wouldn t have eaten for 5 days if it wasn t for you caring about us. You helped us when we felt helpless during the fire alarm also. Forever grateful that Sidney didn t break her leg during evacuation. That was a super sweet note you wrote for us with dinner. David - your sincerity and smile every time you saw Sidney and assisted us to our room didn t go unnoticed. There are special people in the world that radiate caring through their souls and that is you. She loved the pets and attention. I hope your dogs are having great holidays. Thanks for taking our picture with the lobby Xmas tree. Trent/Richard/David- Your compassion to ensure Sidney always had wheels to get to the ER if needed and to her radiation appointments didn t go unnoticed. You guys genuinely helped me place my car in convents places so Sid didn t have to walk far/had access to the grass. Dianna - for checking in on us every night and giving Sidney love. You helped us navigate back to our room with Sidney s cart multiple times and always had a kind smile and love for animals that was apparent. Alix - I would say my first actual meal I ate was breakfast on my day of checkout (thanks Devansh) You comforted me with kind words/encouragement for Sid s recovery. Thanks for letting me stay in the restaurant to finish my work. Breakfast was amazing. Manual - you always have a caring smile and I knew you were sincere when you checked in on Sid every day I saw you. Thanks for storing Sid s wheel and making it easier for us to navigate. Shannon - you comforted and offered kind words of encouragement and lots of dog love during checkout. The valley guy who was working when I checked out thank you for caring and loving animals. Your kind words upon my check out left my heart happy. I m comforted knowing there are good people in the world that genuinely care about others. The staff at the Fairmont Empress became my family and shoulder to cry on even if it was just temporary for week. Thank you for making all my tears feel not so heavy. To the person who booked my hotel you made the hotel aware we may need extra help starting this snowball of empathy/compassion that we experienced. We are not wealthy, but I feel like we were treated like millionaires. Noteworthy details: Amazing staff!!!

During our recent stay at the Fairmont Empress , we had the pleasure of experiencing the exceptional customer service at their Gold lounge, and I am compelled to share how truly above and beyond the gold team went to make our visit memorable. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly by Irwin, Nori and Yaya, who exuded professionalism and genuine hospitality. They quickly accommodated our preferences and made sure every detail was tailored to our comfort. What truly stood out was the attentiveness and proactive nature of the individuals above. Not only did they anticipate our needs before we could voice them, but they also took the time to offer personalized recommendations for drinks and small plates that matched our tastes perfectly. Their knowledge of the gold lounge offerings and commitment to excellence were evident in every interaction. The ambiance of the lounge was inviting and elegant, creating a perfect setting for relaxation. However, it was the service that elevated the experience from great to extraordinary. Whether it was ensuring my glass was never empty or engaging in friendly yet unobtrusive conversation, the team made me feel valued and cared for throughout my time there. We left the lounge not only impressed by the quality of the offerings but also deeply appreciative of the effort that Irwin, Nori and Yaya put into making our experience so special. This level of service is rare to find and deserves to be celebrated. If you re looking for a place that combines luxury, comfort, and impeccable service, the Gold Lounge at Fairmont Empress is a must-visit. I cannot recommend it highly enough and will certainly return on our next trip. Thank you again from Mr. Dame & Mr. Alich

Best of the best. Love the character of the building

Was delighted to be offered an upgrade after wed expressed our intention to watch the Santa Claus Parade with our kids from our room. The room provided was absolutely beautiful and offered a perfect view of the parade. The service received from staff was great too - efficient, friendly and accommodating.

I stayed at the gold floor. The lounge was exquisite, the food was perfect and the customer service was incredible. Im very particular about food and it was outstanding!!

We had a fabulous time! The staff had wonderful suggestions, they were friendly, the hotel was perfectly located for our excursions. We plan to be back!

Love the place. Somethings too expensive for me. But am having a good time

Beautiful place. Central to shopping, food and everything else. Dog friendly. We loved it.

Walkability: Easy access to downtown Rooms

I visited here before Covid. I don t know the worker is still working here, but the hotelman was very rude and abusive. I believe he was a racist. The building is old and dirty so I don t recommend this hotel to anyone. Update: As you can see from the reply from the owner, even now they have no regard for their own poor customer service in the situation. I am reminded that this is still the worst hotel.

Very nice rooms. Very posh feeling. Absolutely beautiful and so cozy n comfy!

Stayed at the Empress numerous times over the years and its always been phenomenal. Everything from the doorman, to check-in, the rooms, the restaurant, bar, location - everything is just magical. Something very special about this hotel - highly recommend staying here.

Stayed here a month ago and this hotel was certainly above my expectations. Rooms are perfectly clean and has a good view . Close to everything and is in the heart of downtown.

Beautiful Hotel

Posh landmark hotel in the heart of Victoria. Rooms are almost all renovated (ask for that!). In room Nespresso coffee is great. Rooms are spacious. Carpet is exceptionally soft. Clean and bright bathrooms. To park enter from the rear. Walkability: Walk to many main sights and activities and restaurants in Victoria

Beautiful,clean,classic and luxurious hotel.will be back for sure

Great experience. Wonderful rooms and location. Staff was excellent, especially Irwin in the Gold loungue. The food was great, and I loved being near the water, the downtown, museum, and parks. Highly recommend. Rooms: Our room was 500sq feet and had 2 bathrooms. Great for a family. Nearby activities: Beacon hill park, totem pools, museum and harbor Safety: Very secure. Loved you used your key to go up the elevators, lots of staff everywhere. Walkability: To all major attractions Food and drinks: Gold is the way to go. Breakfast, snacks, appetizer, drinks and dessert. Noteworthy details: Gold is worth it. Afternoon tea room was ok.

The Grand Dame of Victoria, the Stately and elegant hotel. Impeccable service and wonderful concierge and excellent attention to detail. Also they are dog friendly next visit I ll bring the pups over.

From check-in, through daily interaction with staff, everyone was informative & polite. The facilities are immaculately maintained. Breakfast though though pricey never disappointed! Rooms were very comfortable, and bathroom products were amazing. Only negative the entire experience is the hairdryers in the rooms and gym are dated and very underwhelming.

I attended an event dinner. Staff seemed to be distracted. Half our table got served and the other half of us were overlooked. We had to ask twice for or dinners, coffee etc.

My wife and I like to visit every few months. The Empress is fantastic as is their entire staff. Will be back soon.

Exelent costumers service

We had a great time staying here and celebrating our anniversary. The manager on duty Sougarth went above and beyond to make sure we had a good experience here. He really cares about the guests and made great recommendations on which restaurants to go to and how to get there. He was very attentive and kind. People will want to go back to this hotel because of the amazing service.

If you are visiting Victoria you must stay at this hotel. It s a beautiful hotel with lots of history. The high tea is a must try.

Our two-night stay here was absolutely lovely and flawless. After reading some reviews, I expected to be charged for parking and Wi-Fi, but parking became complimentary after signing up for the membership, and Wi-Fi was complimentary from the start. We also received beverage coupons for two to enjoy at the bar. All the staff I encountered were super friendly and professional. The ramp down to the underground parking was beautifully decorated with flowers, which was super impressive. Their gardens are also stunning, with many great photo spots. We travelled with our dog (a husky mix) and loved how not only was it pet-friendly, but there were no pet fees! The room was set up with a dog bed and bowls for food and water. While our room didn t have a view, we hardly spent time in it to enjoy one anyway we still got to take in the stunning harbour view from the hallway by the elevator. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of many attractions and restaurants, which was definitely an added bonus. Breakfast at Q was excellent. The service was impressive, and the food was amazing. I have such fond memories of Victoria, and I feel the Fairmont Empress played a big part in that. I ll definitely stay here again on our next trip to Victoria.

It was an amazing experience for us to stay here. We booked through the Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts program which provides additional perks that make you feel super special. We received an amazing room upgrade, a delicious room service breakfast each morning and a night of room service as well! The people who work there are very friendly and trying to make your experience as special as possible. The location is, of course, perfect.

The most comfortable bed, such a beautifully maintained garden, environmentally conscientious, INCREDIBLE service, to the point of it being an art. Make sure to look absolutely everywhere, it is all stunning.

The Empress Hotel is located next to Victoria Harbor. The accommodation is comfortable, the meals are delicious, the beautiful scenery of Victoria can be seen outside the window, and the garden setting is carefully designed, making it a pleasant stay.

beautiful hotel to stay or eat at. Not cheap but worth it for a night or two for the experience. parking available

Holy moly what a BEAUTIFUL building!!! I didnt stay there, just went to the shops as I was at a conference. Wow. You have to see it! The architecture, the stained glass... Wow.

Unfortunately I experienced terrible customer service - extremely poor staff.

We just visited for the tea service which was absolutely amazing though not cheap. Hotel is beautiful and very centrally located.

I am dissapointed in the recent renovations, particularly as it relates to Fairmont Gold. In 2022, pre renovation, a Fairmont Gold room at the Empress was truly an exceptional, personalized, and more intimate experience (lovely exclusive lounge and balcony - staff know who you are, etc). Post renovation its like 40% of the hotel is Fairmont Gold, the once quaint and exclusive private lounge is now more akin to an airport lounge (United Club). Gold desk staff cant remember who you are, you need to basically prove your entry to the breakfast. All charm has been lost. Not worth Fairmont Gold pricing as your stay wont be much more special than getting a (what feels like) airport lounge pass. Its very sad. This hotel has lost its charm, history. I was horrified. Food and drinks: Great as always, but the Fairmont Gold lounge solely for food is not worth your money. Its like hearing cattle at breakfast now. Id rather go to the restaurant and pay.

I recently had an incredible stay at this hotel in room 330 and 332 and everything from check in to check out was perfect. Our check in experience with Bhoomika was smooth and welcoming. She noticed us waiting in line and quickly invited us to a different desk and made us feel well taken care of with her professionalism and warm approach. Housekeeping was just as impressive. Crislyn, our turn down attendant went above and beyond to make sure we each had an extra bottle of water which was a thoughtful touch that really added to our comfort. Breakfast at Q was a highlight. the food was delicious and offered a great variety. Our server Cicilia provided excellent service and even shared her positive experiences working at the hotel over the years which added a nice personal touch to our morning. Overall our stay was outstanding, and we truly felt welcomed by the wonderful staff. We ll definitely be coming back and highly recommend this hotel for its exceptional service and attention to detail. Thank you for an amazing experience!

Good

It was a special treat to stay at this place. The staff was so helpful and made us feel at home.

Fantastic quality and service. Our check in/ out experience with Yeri was awesome!

Just must visit to appreciate

Wonderful stay. We were greeted with Michelle at check in. She was friendly, efficient, and helped us with an upgrade. The gold floor is truly an exceptional experience. The food was great, the views were amazing! We dined at Q and Will was our waiter. He did an amazing job recommending some delicious food.. and dinner is complimentary for children under 5! Overall, we received great customer service from everyone. Will definitely return.

Service was excellent. Staff was friendly and professional.

A beautiful hotel in a prime waterfront location. A very friendly greeting from the doorman on arrival was slightly tainted by a frosty man on reception, but his customer service was an exception because everyone else we encountered were great! The bar staff were particularly friendly and welcoming. Our room was lovely and the gifts you arranged for my husbands retirement were such a wonderful touch. Our only critique on the room was the bed frame bases which jut out and catch you on the legs!! A few bruises to show for that!! Would recommend this place for that special bit of luxury.

Here on a work trip and loved every minute! Great hotel!

best location in town, spacious room, very comfortable bed.

Food and drinks: Enjoyed an afternoon tea! Highly recommend. Service

Everything at this hotel is above and beyond, from the valet service, front desk, and all the staff at the restaurant and bars. Cozy beds, clean bathrooms and amazing pool. Definitely worth every cent, highly recommend! Food and drinks: The food and beverage team at the Empress is outstanding! Ty helped me with a reservation and Marco served us. Both were amazing and made our experience incredible! We had the best cocktails and delicious food for and unforgettable sunset on the Veranda for our last night on our Canada vacation. Noteworthy details: Beautiful indoor pool with kids section

What an impeccable hotel with impeccable service, attentiveness, a beautiful location and second to none comfort and amenities. My go-to place whenever I vacation in Victoria.

Fairytales do come true at the exquisite Empress. Our familys expectations were exceeded by a staff who always led out with excellence, kindness, and courtesy. A few of the superstars that come to mind are Anu, Miriam, Victoria, Karandeep, Michael and Tyler, but the list continues. Actually, we did not have one bad experience given every employee was on the top of his/her game. People make a hotel, and I cannot say enough good things about the integrity of the personnel at The Empress. As for the grounds and the rooms, they are unparalleled in their beauty and attention to detail. From the moment our family arrived, we were impressed by the overall comfort of our rooms, as well as the warm hospitality from The Gold Team. The towels couldnt have been fluffier, and the beds provided the best support. The dining experience and afternoon tea were equally delightful. It is crystal clear that great care goes into creating a memorable culinary experience for your guests, as we were treated like royalty. I highly recommend a stay at this stately and beautiful hotel. A special thanks to the outstanding Gold Team for bringing so much heart to our stay there. We will definitely be back and make new traditions at The Empress.

Just wonderful one of the great hotels of the world

A drink and appy on the Verenda!

We went here for afternoon tea. During our three days, we went to three different places for afternoon tea. This tied for first with another place. It was first for atmosphere by far! It tied for first for the tea, and it tied for first for food (first for regular, second for gluten-free). Service was first by a long way!

We went here for the Afternoon tea. Yes it is expensive and they will bring you a tea for each person (granted you are paying for it). What we didnt know and they wont tell you is that you can ask for refills on the sandwiches if you wish. They will automatically bring you refills on the tea. Great experience. I recommend going earlier (make it a lunch), because it does get very busy later on. If you do not know. You do have to make reservations and I highly recommend doing that online. All of the staff is very friendly and helpful. They will help you take photos, they are polite and provide you information if you ask. We really enjoy it. The sandwiches were fantastic and so was the scone. The sweets were too sweet for me to eat, but if you really like sweets youll love them.

Didnt stay here... Stopped into the Q bar for a Royal Martini. (A Vesper made with Empress Gin and Absolute Elyx). Beautiful facility all around. Staff were attentive and friendly. The building and grounds are amazing!

Great hotel Fantastic restaurants Rooms

We visited the common areas well cruising through Alaska. The facilities were awesome beautiful building and grounds. The bar and lounge area were first class, definitely if you re visiting stop inside.

We walked into Q, the bar at the Fairmont Empress, and found empty seats at the bar so we sat. My sister and her husband were asked by the female bartender to remove themselves so that she could clean the bar. She was very rude in her manner. I have never seen a bartender clean the bar from the wrong side. When I saw what she had done, and saw my sister and brother in law, who were both dressed to the nines, by the way, I suggested we go and find a better class of bar. I filed my complaint and left my contact info, but have not heard from anyone. Pity that was our first experience of the Empress.

Afternoon Tea here. Very lovely! Fantastic view, great food and service. A must go to. Food and drinks: Afternoon Tea is special!

Just did the touristy thing and walked around. Gorgeous inside and out. Walkability: Right next to downtown and the harbour Location : 5/5 Hotel highlights

we didnt stay there but the grounds were very nice and the inside was just amazing.

What a great hotel to stay at! Get the empress martini. With purple gin

This hotel has the most beautiful gardening, the restaurant and cafe have great service.

Friendly valet. Manager is great. Check-in people are extremely unfriendly!!! I cannot emphasize this more. Room was very outdated, small, bed was not a queen as booked - seems more like a double. Beautiful gardens and lounge. Probably won t stay there again due to the check-in receptionist. Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver was a completely different experience.

Excessive, Exorbitantly priced, Extravagant, Preposterous, Marvelous and Simply Brilliant Darling. I had a blast with my family. Pool, Health Spa, High Tea, and Customer Service were absolutely phenomenal!!! If money is no object to you or you feel like staying at a lavish hotel then I highly recommend staying at The Empress. Rooms: 9.5/10 Walkability: 9/10

I ve missed the lights in the room being automatically turned off in the same way a lot of the most modern hotels are. In my first night I found leftovers in the mini bar. The internet in the room had poor signal but since I was all day out I had no problem with that. Other than that, it was nice to find water filters in the hallway

First time I ve stayed since the last major renovation. It s beautiful and a worthwhile stay.

great environment

Outstanding friendly service.Kudos to Irwin and his group.

Beautifully built in 1908 stone architecture, excellent quality rooms, good service staff, and a better upscale hospitality, environmentally conscious, friendly hotel! Also, we loved the dining room and the high tea rooms. You will not be disappointed with your stay Rooms: Great, upscale, and comfortable with a good, clean, quality bathroom! Safety: Felt really safe with the house detective on duty and the side entry doors locked up at night! Food and drinks: Great restaurants and tea room.

Absolute stunning place to stay, the rooms were picture perfect! Clean! Staff went over and above. Stayed 3 nights not a single thing to complain about.

I visited this Hotel as a part of a cruise excursion. The hotel is gorgeous. Very elegant. I enjoyed an evening tea. Lovely atmosphere. Food and drinks: Tea service menu was very good.

We had booked a junior suit. room 834 was good but it was right next to the lift. The bed is right next to the wall shared with lift. It was very noisy. Last night was raining and we had the noise from the gutter added too. Restaurant is excellent. Staff at the Terrace cafe & the restaurant were amazing. We have booked all our trip in Canada with Fairmont. Hopefully the rest will be better rooms.

Has been remodeled by Fairmont. Looks like a brand new hotel. Everyone there was super nice. Easy walking distance to restaurants and every place we wanted to go. Had the best time.

This is an absolutely beautiful hotel from the art work , to architecture to having high tea. The landscaping outside is incredible and the service was fantastic! Keep up the great work! Walkability: It is located in the center of town. A lot of great restaurants with in walking distance Food and drinks: Highly recommend china town!

The Empress Fairmont Empress

Wonderful hotel. The service was truly amazing. Very lovely people and an incredible location.

One star might seam harsh. BUT this is the worst experience I have ever had at a Fairmont of this caliber. Service is really bad, attitude of the staff is beyond poor. Food and drink options are very limited. They don t acomódate at all. Tea is mediocre at best Don t bother coming to stay or for Tea. What a shame, this place used to be impecable Food and drinks: Very limited on options. Will not accommodate.

We are staying at the Empress for a long birthday weekend and I am extremely disappointed. The rooms are tiny and they do not provide bottled water. I have never stayed at a hotel that does not provide bottled water. We tried to get a drink at the bar on arrival after a long travel day driving to Port Angeles and taking the ferry over. We were told it was first come first served, that we could sit outside in the freezing patio. That was our only option even though there was a ton of seating right outside the restaurant/bar area. No mention of taking the drinks to our rooms. We felt like we were being turned away. The level of customer service here is abysmal. Save your money and stay somewhere else. Rooms: Too small, no water, someone else s hair on towels and pillows.

We stayed in this beautiful hotel during our tour of Canada which also took us to Victoria. Its location in relation to the town is excellent, overlooking the Parliament and the bay. The rooms are nice and quite luxurious (maybe a little less so, compared to another Fairmont where we stayed on the same trip). The staff was quite friendly. The only negative point, but which I understand to be a personal preference, is the bathtub rather than the shower as it is very uncomfortable. Victoria, however, remains a half of Western Canada that is absolutely worth visiting!

We were here for afternoon tea, which is a small but nice experience, with delicious tea and sweet and savory snacks.

Poorly maintained complex, water damage interiors like a third world, The ramps leading to the complex had no lighting, older people trip and get injured walking, not sure how the City inspectors passed it for public usage. Top floor rooms not fit for tall people, low vaulted ceilings. Funny smelling beds, of course room service is acceptable. Pics attached

Most wonderful hotel and service! Food and drinks: Excellent food, especially high tea. Rooms : 5/5 |

An expensive way to ruin my birthday. A king suite, not ready for us on arrival, 2 hr wait. Could not have my 15lb dog in any of the cafes to wait, not even outside on covered patio. Valet parked my special edition vehicle outside in the rain for 3 days, cold food for room service, comically bad dinner the next nite in formal dining room, parody fine dining. The staff refused to acknowledge how they had dropped the ball with this reservation. I admit that the high tea and apps are very good. The bar cocktails are good- but a very expensive fail as a luxury experience. Huge hotel is cumbersome, like a train station. Trash littered everywhere from on-going events that seem to overwhelm a very over-worked staff. And whoever chose the signature scent of retirement home rose for their soaps should be fired. Walkability: It is in walking distance of good shopping and better food options.

The Empress Hotel in front of Victoria Harbor has a great environment and location, the night view is beautiful, and the exterior feels like it has been renovated. Great stay experience

Amazing High tea with scrumptious scones

Beautiful place conveniently located. Tea is very fun! Will go back here to stay if I visit again

Hotel was nice. Room was small for the price. Bathroom was super tiny. Smelled old in the room. Wouldn t recommend for what you get.

Visited the lobby and bar. Had a few drinks and snacks. Enjoyed the tasty popcorn while sitting at the bar. Make sure you try it!

Traditional & Historical hotel on a prime location, surrounded by a beautiful garden. Rooms were renovated and amenities were high quality. However the best part of the hotel were the employees. Genuinely friendly and ready to listen and help. I did have some issues while checking in, but the other staff - housekeeping, wait staff, the IT & AV techs more than made up for that. Rooms: Rooms have been renovated and the linen were fresh and great quality.

I had not stayed at a Fairmont in a while - really glad I stayed here. This is an older property and the rooms a tad dated (but people probably like this ambiance?) - but it makes up for it in 10/10 service. Everyone from the doorman to check in to the night audit guy who helped me print 60 pages of contracts at 1am were great. I booked gold so had access to a great lounge and separate check in. Was well worth it. 10/10 would recommend and actually booked my next trip somewhere else with fairmont on the basis of this great experience. I also really appreciated the upgrade after booking thru Amex FHR.

The best place to stay in Victoria!! Location is amazing and the rooms are nice. I loved the pool and the onsite restaurant for breakfast. It added a special touch to our vacation. Rooms

The Empress is more than 115 years old but it was skillfully restored between 2015 and 2017 by the Bosa family of Vancouver. Citizens of BC owe thanks to the owners for making this hotel a giant piece of architectural art. Beyond accommodations, the Empress offers unique dining and shopping areas. Even if visitors are staying elsewhere, a visit to this grand hotel is worthwhile.

Beautiful historic building. Perfect for taking pictures.

We had afternoon tea in the Tea Room. What a delightful experience! The teas were so flavorful and the food was delicious. Our server Raymond was so engaging and explained all the teas and food selections. The atmosphere was so warm and inviting. I would highly recommend doing this.

Victoria Fairmont Empress Hotel The Empress story began in the early 1900s when Canadian Pacific Railway had this big dream to build chateau-style hotels across Canada to accommodate their affluent steam and rail clients. Not just any hotels though; they needed to be in iconic locations and in communities that showcased Canada s breathtaking and diverse landscapes. Celebrated architect Francis Rattenbury was hired to make this dream a reality in Victoria. Construction began in 1904 and four years later, The Empress Hotel opened on January 20, 1908. The Empress was named after Queen Victoria, who during the last decade of her reign, was also the Empress of India. The Empress Hotel was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981 and became a Fairmont Hotel in 1999. The number one thing that most people associate with the Empress is afternoon tea! Since 1908, the hotel has served England s most beloved ritual to famed royalty, celebrities and guests from all over the world. Queen Elizabeth II has visited Victoria every decade of her reign. Princess Margaret, Queen Mother, Will and Kate and numerous other royals have also graced the Edwardian hallways. From John Wayne slinging cocktails for strangers in the hotel bar and Shirley Temple escaping to the Empress from California amidst threats of kidnapping, celebrities love this hotel. Hollywood legends like Ginger Rodgers, Douglas Fairbanks, Katharine Hepburn, John Travolta, Rod Stewart and Barbara Streisand to name just a very few. Bob Hope always asked for suite 330 because the carpet outside his door made the perfect putting green and Bing Crosby felt so at home, he was often seen without his toupee!

The hotel is amazing, really well placed, with a lot of character, great gardens, accessible and the interiors are pretty cool. Service was really good, and nice personnel. Parking (you could access the parking on the road in front of the Imax and have access to the hotel and pay the regular price, around 24) in the premises, accessible. Brunch was not amazing compared to other Fairmonts. Rooms are very nice, with with really good confortable beds.

A fantastic place to live an experience in the city of Victoria BC located in a strategic location in Downtown.

Luxury hotel in a great location

We booked the high tea experience - my daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed it!

I won a free night at the hotel a few years ago through a Christmas shop local promotion. My wife and I stayed at the hotel for her birthday in April. When the front desk found out it was her birthday they put us in one of the old style really cool rooms. It was a fun place to stay and we will definitely be going back. Rooms: Felt like I was stepping back in history.

My wife and I did a walk through of the hotel. This hotel is amazing. Luxury at its finest. We did not stay here or even eat here but we certainly enjoyed our short time here. This iconic hotel is situated on the inner harbour in Victoria. The outside grounds are beautiful with groomed lawns and an abundance of flowers, shrubs and trees. If you have an opportunity to visit do so and I m sure a stay here would be amazing.

The color of the toilet door is peeling off which makes your stay very unpleasant. Rooms: The room felt very clean and quiet when sleeping, but the toilet was relatively small.

Pricey, beautiful, comfortable. The history behind this place, asking with the architecture, set it apart. Walkability: Lots to visit nearby on foot. A central location for a visit to Victoria

Nathan was a great help. He is a gem. Booked my room so seamlessly.

Nice place. Visited with my family. Enjoyed a lot.

There was a used bar of soap in my bathroom. At 2 a.m., there was a loud truck noise. I also paid an $800 deposit via debit card, and despite following up several times, they still havent released it after three weeks. Every time I inquire, they say to wait another 5 to 7 days. The service is poor, and you won t enjoy your stay there.

I didnt like it, bad taste in the decoration of the rooms, the food in the breakfast restaurant well below a Dennys. There is no high technology like in the other fairmonts. Nothing to do with the elegance and luxury of the Pacific Rim Fairmont and the cost of the Victoria hotel is much higher. Inexplicable. The lady at the front desk looked bad, she approached me and her mouth had a bad smell. Rooms: They are not tastefully decorated. There are only objects to put. There were several insects in my bedroom.

Just wrapped up our honeymoon, and from the moment we arrived to when we left the stay was magical, the staff was exceptional, and the hotel was immaculate. We enjoyed the luxury of the Gold level services, and would absolutely recommend this experience to anyone who wants to experience adorable luxury.

Great value for such a historic place.

Spent 50th wedding anniversary, they sent up champagne for us. Food and drinks: Great morning Breakfasts, Great cocktails at 5pm. Rooms : 5/5 |

Lots of changes at Victorias Fairmont Empress. Miss the original Bengal Lounge, which was renovated and lost its charm. This new bar pictured salutes Queen Victoria.

We didn t want to leave. What a wonderful way to start our two weeks on Vancouver Island. We had a Deluxe Harbour View Corner Room with two queen beds, walk in closet and entry way into room. The staff however made our stay. Cheryl in the Q at breakfast , Trent at the front door/valet and Alix at High Tea were a few that made our stay extra special. This hotel knows how to do service and luxury Walkability: Located in downtown. Easy walking to restaurants and local attractions

Fantastic hotel! Very elegant with nice clean rooms and comfortable beds. And the location is perfect. Right in the heart of all the action. I also highly recommend trying the afternoon tea. This hotel does not disappoint. Night and day better than the Fairmont in Vancouver which is a dump.

Beautiful place with extraordinary views!

I was extremely disappointed with my recent visit to this location The lack of trust in the establishment was evident from the start. I was charged almost 25 $ for a drink I never received, and the waitress with short black hair and glasses refused to show me the receipt properly. Its unacceptable to be overcharged for something I didnt order. I will not be returning. I hope the management address this matter ASAP.

Great stay, staff were exceptional. Walkability: Near harbor and shopping. Rooms : 5/5 |

An amazing part of Victoria history and Canada as well. The building and the grounds are kept in pristine condition. The new owners have invested a lot of money and it shows.. so much to do in this area. My chocolate lab loves our trips to the Empress. Proud to have this in our backyard . Nearby activities: Parliament building Inner harbour Royal BC museum Safety: Very Safe. Lots of people Walkability: So many things with a block or two . Spectacular

A Five-Star Business Retreat at the Fairmont Empress My recent business stay at the Fairmont Empress was nothing short of exceptional. This historic hotel, with its stunning views of Victoria s Inner Harbour, offers a perfect blend of elegance and modern convenience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm smiles and impeccable service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure my stay was comfortable and seamless. The room was beautifully appointed, with luxurious touches that made it feel like a home away from home. The Fairmont pillow-top bed was incredibly comfortable, and the elegant decor added a touch of sophistication to my stay. The amenities were top-notch, catering perfectly to a business traveler. The high-speed internet and well-equipped workspaces allowed me to stay productive, while the serene environment provided the perfect backdrop for unwinding after a busy day. Dining at the Fairmont Empress was an absolute pleasure. The culinary offerings were exquisite, with a menu that showcased the best of West Coast cuisine. The service was attentive and the ambiance was perfect for both casual and formal dining. I loved the renovated lounge, it was a great place to relax and end your day the art deco aesthetic was superb. In summary, the Fairmont Empress exceeded all my expectations. It s an ideal choice for business travelers seeking a luxurious and comfortable stay. I look forward to my next visit and highly recommend this beautiful hotel to anyone visiting Victoria. Nearby activities: you are in the middle of it all Walkability: you are in the middle of it all

So fancy and aestheticly beautiful!

Best High Tea we have ever had!

Booked an afternoon tea on our 2 day visit to Victoria whilst on an East to West Canada Tour from the UK. Venue absolutely stunning, but can honestly say we left disappointed after what was a highly anticipated part of our stay. The initial service after seating was excellent with the explanation and subsequent delivery of selected tea, but when you are paying 109CAD per person you do not expect to be forgotten and not receive your highly anticipated selection of cakes/savouries etc until you have almost finished a full pot of tea and tables who arrived after you are happily tucking into theirs! We did raise our concern with another waiter and shortly after received our food, which was OK but given the timescales we had experienced not enjoyed as much as it should have been. I feel the issue lies not with our highly knowledgeable waitress who supplied the tea, more so with the team communication of those delivering the food portion of the high tea . We still tipped the tea server, but for a venue like the Fairmont Empress they really need to tighten up on their timings/communication. Having experienced Afternoon Tea at the Carbis Bay Resort in St. Ives amongst others this was a HUGE disappointment. Rather than a Fairmont Afternoon Tea in the future back in the UK, we will be inclined towards visiting others such as Claridges.

Beautiful, wonderful stay. What a treat - made us feel like royalty. Worth the price as everywhere from the garden to the high tea room were beautifully appointed.

I didnt stay here yet attended an event in the Conference Centre attached to the Empress. So much change yet love they kept some of the original hotel and its beauty. Great location for walking and sightseeing. Parking seems to be a problem for guests. Lots of good places to eat in hotel and close by. Its too bad they dont have a high quality sweets shop in the hotel of local chocolate. There used to be a Purdys Chocolate in the lobby back in the day.

Food and drinks: Tea was lovely. Service was attentive and welcoming. Hotel highlights

Had a wonderful time at high tea! If you give them at least 24 hours in advance they can do an amazing vegan tea service! Our waitress was so informative and kind! Definitely will be back! Walkability: Easy walk from the Victoria clipper or other ferries. Right in the heart of the harbour area with easy walk to shopping and lots of restaurants as well as the waterfront area Food and drinks: I was so happy that they offer a delicious vegan tea service! They are also great at accommodating food allergies.

Its interesting. It was lovely. This time I just passed by and borrowed the restroom. Many customers were drinking at the bar. Afternoon tea is also famous.

The lobby and public locations like restaurants and beautiful. The had high tea and cocktails at Q. Very pricey but good. The room we had was nice but has cobwebs and someone else s hair. The ceilings are very tall but I could see the giant cobwebs from below. They were not cleaned during housekeeping service either. The hair on the bathroom wall does not match anyone s hair from my party and was also not cleaned during housekeeping. I let the front desk know about this twice. Also, I am short but the sink was not past my hip height. Very uncomfortable to wash my face. When we checked in, we were asked if we wanted to valet park or self park. We said self park and were directed to the garage. Upon check out I was not told I am good to go and all has been paid on my card. We tried to leave the garage and were told we were supposed to have some slip from the valet guy or front desk. We were never given this so we were charged $49 for parking. Rooms: Small rooms with tall ceilings. Not quiet, heard elevator dinging all the time and people walking by talking loudly. Nearby activities: The marina is right there. So close to everything. We enjoyed the miniature world museum next to the hotel. Walkability: Great location!!! Food and drinks: Good food, drink and service. But pricey!

Solo tome the

I had the pleasure of visiting Fort Empress, and it truly exceeded my expectations in every aspect. **Location:** Nestled in the heart of British Victoria Island, the location of Fort Empress is nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by stunning waterfront views, it captures the essence of the islands natural beauty. The proximity to local attractions, shops, and dining options makes it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration. It s easy to appreciate the charm of the island when youre based here. **Elegance of Interior:** Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the elegance of the interior design. The lobby exudes sophistication with its tasteful decor, blending classic Victorian elements with modern touches. Each room is thoughtfully appointed, featuring luxurious furnishings and a calming color palette that creates a serene atmosphere. The attention to detail is apparent, from the intricate moldings to the carefully curated artwork adorning the walls. **Lawn and Flower Maintenance:** The outdoor spaces are equally impressive. The expansive lawn is meticulously maintained, providing a lush green oasis that invites guests to unwind. The flower gardens are a riot of color, showcasing a variety of blooms that are clearly tended to with great care. The grounds staff takes pride in their work, ensuring that every flower bed is vibrant and flourishing, creating a picturesque setting that enhances the overall experience at Fort Empress. In conclusion, Fort Empress is a gem on British Victoria Island, combining breathtaking location, elegant interiors, and stunning gardens. Whether youre looking for a peaceful getaway or a base to explore the island, this place is a must-visit. I can t wait to return!

Great location Nearby activities: Market place Walkability: Near the sea walk

One of the attractions of Victoria is the hotel The Fairmont Empress, opened in 1908 and located in the very center of the city. The interior of the hotel is elegant and refined. These are marble and crystal, fireplaces and tapestries, elegant furniture and antique objects of art. Afternoon tea is a wonderful tradition for guests - fragrant tea, delicious pastries and friendly service.

When we first arrived, the front desk was very busy & we had some trouble with our room selection but Mark was there to save the day. Mark was kind, patient & worked so hard to ensure we were well taken care of. It s thanks to his efforts that this Fairmont experience will be a great one. This hotel is in a perfect location and has nice rooms but without Mark, it wouldn t be half as good. He s the true MVP.

Didnt stay here overnight but came for a nice cup of cappuccino and let me tell you beautiful and gorgeous this hotel is!!

One of the best High Teas I have been too. Wonderful service and ambience, wide selection of teas and delicious snacks. I highly recommend this. This one is a must visit.

The front desk and all those who helped us were stellar.

Magnificent, the hotel is overall great with friendly staff. They are especially good with kids, seniors and anniversaries. Lots of highlights. Most of all, staff will always do their best to make sure you get a room, even if you haven t made a reservation. Empress is an incredible hotel, the views from the rooms are most amazing, with top quality in-room dining services. Safety: Very safe Noteworthy details: Friendly staff, the hotel is great with kids

We heard the Fairmont Express was a beautiful hotel and we were so excited to spend our wedding anniversary there for 2 nights. But on our last night there, we found 2 silverfishes in the bathroom; one in the sink and one on the bar of soap! We were petrified and we went to bed with the icks! When we checked out the next morning, we mentioned the situation to them (we had even shown them pictures) and they simply said Oh we will get housekeeping to look into that. Nothing else was done and even one of the staff members at the desk made a joke of the situation! We were utterly disappointed with the customer service and how the whole situation was dealt with. We expected more from a highly regarded hotel...

While the glory days of the Old Empress Vic was long gone, the grand edifice of The Empress Hotel remains impressive sitting in the heart of Victoria and overlooking the provincial legislature from across the harbour.

This is a great historic hotel with modern amenities and top service. Rooms are comfortable, with good bedding and amenities in the bathroom. It s an impressive hotel with so much history and true to its heritage without compromising comfort and service. Location is unbeatable and all the restaurants and bars are so convenient for people wanting to stay within the property. The best part is that is dog friendly and they really cater to that, if a hotel is not dig friendly I won t stay there, so we appreciate this so much and would come back just for this fact. Great experience overall. Noteworthy details: Dog friendly! Our chocolate lab loved the hotel and the grounds

Hires temporary foreign workers, which the UN has called a modern form of slavery Enjoy your stay if you enjoy being served by precarious, exploited workers taking jobs away from Canadians.

Had the best time staying at this iconic hotel and mostly because of the exceptional service at the front desk. Max was AMAZING and set us up with complimentary drinks in the Q lounge while our room was being set up. He also made the best dinner recommendations that was a highlight of our stay as well. Really enjoyed our time in Victoria and this gem of a place.

There are only a handful of hotels in the world that are so iconic, they can be instantly identified by name alone, and very few of them are found on the west coast of North America. The Hotel del Coronado in San Diego is one; the Empress (now the Fairmont Empress) is the other. Thats it. Thats the list. Theres a reason for this kind of exclusivity: this is a place built for royalty. Well, more accurately, to make its guests *feel* like royalty...and it does a damn good job of it! Evocative architecture, impeccable service, a world-class high tea service, multiple restaurants and bars, a sauna and fitness center, and several upscale boutiques selling haute-couture apparel, jewelry and, of course, tea, with only the latter being affordable to the peasantry (such as us)! Theres also an attached conference center and event venue, the discovery of which conjured up a hilariously absurd scenario in my mind of an anime convention being held here. The image of scantily-clad costumed anime girls, Gundams and furries intermingling with posh pinky-raising elites over a cup of Ceylon tea will not soon fade from my imagination! As expected, even a single-nights stay here is going to set you back a pretty penny (or pound): a last-minute booking will run you north of $500 USD for even the most modest of accommodations, so plan (far) ahead if you want to secure a more reasonable rate. Additionally, the high tea service, while definitely an experience you dont want to miss, is similarly priced dearly at over $100 per head, and comes coupled with an enforced dress code, so leave your tank tops and flip flops upstairs in your room. Though Queen Victoria did not live long enough to see it built, the Fairmont Empress is a hotel as iconic as the monarch for which its architectural style, as well as the city in which it resides, is named after. Her Majesty would be proud. And thankfully, now all of us serfs can enjoy it as well, and experience, for just a moment, what it would be like to live like a King or Queen!

For High Tea, make a reservation. BRADLEY our server was EXCELLENT! Order the Empress G and T! Sooo Good!