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
Book on our site
for up to 10% off
than to Booking.com!
Check rooms and rates
From139US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Details

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

Accommodations

Fairmont Empress offers 431 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, including the exclusive Fairmont Gold experience which boasts private lounge access and daily breakfast. Many rooms feature stunning views over the Inner Harbour, the city, or the courtyard, with spa-like bathrooms that enhance the sense of luxury. The hotel's vast options cater to families and couples alike, providing ample space for relaxation and comfort.

Location

Located in Victoria, BC, Fairmont Empress overlooks the sparkling Inner Harbour and is just steps away from downtown attractions, such as the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Guests can easily access Victoria International Airport within approximately 30 minutes by car or arrive in style via the Helijet for a quick transfer. The hotel is the perfect base for exploring Vancouver Island's breathtaking parks, beaches, and cultural landmarks.

Dining

Dining at Fairmont Empress encompasses award-winning culinary experiences, highlighting Pacific Northwest cuisine. Guests can enjoy the famous Afternoon Tea, offered in the elegant Q at the Empress restaurant, or seasonal menus at The Veranda overlooking the harbour. The hotel's diverse dining options ensure there is something for every palate, ranging from casual bites to exquisite gourmet meals.

Wellness

Fairmont Empress houses Vancouver Island's most luxurious spa, dedicated to holistic wellbeing with a full range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. The spa also includes a serene mineral bath, sauna, and steam room, providing a tranquil environment for relaxation. Guests can enhance their experience by participating in wellness rituals designed to rejuvenate body and mind.

Family-Friendly Offerings

Fairmont Empress provides family-friendly accommodations, ensuring comfort and convenience for younger guests. The hotel offers amenities such as children's robes, high chairs, and cribs, along with special packages like 'Kids Rule the Castle.' Activities include scavenger hunts and exclusive children's events throughout the year, allowing families to create lasting memories.

Highlights

Dining: Award-winning culinary experiences

Wellness: Vancouver Island's most luxurious spa

Location: Steps from the British Columbia Parliament Buildings

Accommodations: Fairmont Gold experience with private lounge

“This grande dame elegantly blends historic charm with modern luxury, and its Inner Harbour location places guests near Victoria's best attractions. The afternoon tea, served on Royal China, remains an iconic experience. I think it's the ideal spot for romantic getaways and luxurious family vacations.”
Hotel logo
Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown
View all

Select room type

Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive 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
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Check Availability & Prices

Find the best rates for your travel dates now!

Facilities

Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 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
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Victoria's Fairmont Empress Hotel, guests can indulge in an exquisite dining experience at the award-winning Q at The Empress and the elegant Lobby Lounge. Dishes crafted by renowned Executive Chef Morgan Wilson celebrate the vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest, showcasing the best of local ingredients in a refined yet inviting setting.
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 with Pacific Northwest influences
Ambiance
A sophisticated setting defined by elegance and modern refinement, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
Key Offerings
Savor creative bites like avo toast and egg white frittata with local mushrooms, complemented by luxurious cocktails featuring gold-dusted macarons. Chef Wilson's culinary philosophy shines through in every dish, embodying a journey without borders.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary

Lobby Lounge

Light bites and cocktails
Ambiance
An airy space exuding turn-of-the-century elegance, enhanced by the mellow notes of live classical piano music for a serene dining experience.
Key Offerings
Take in stunning views while enjoying thoughtfully crafted cocktails and exquisite treat accompaniments, ensuring each visit feels special and indulgent.
Reservation
Not needed
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
Explore Victoria
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Royal BC Museum
Royal BC Museum
5 minutes walking
A premier cultural institution showcasing British Columbia's history through exciting exhibits and artifacts.
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
4 minutes walking
An architectural masterpiece offering guided tours and beautiful gardens, overlooking the Inner Harbour.
Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Park
19 minutes walking
A vast park featuring walking trails, gardens, and a petting zoo, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle
30 minutes walking
A historic mansion with stunning architecture and gardens, showcasing Victorian-era decor and lifestyle.
Kayaking at Fisherman's Wharf
17 minutes walking
Enjoy kayaking in the harbor with rentals available. Perfect for thrill-seekers looking to explore the waters.
Yoga in Beacon Hill Park
19 minutes walking
Serene outdoor yoga sessions available in the park. A great option for relaxation amidst nature.
Q at The Empress
Q at The Empress
1 minute walking
An elegant dining experience featuring local ingredients and seasonal dishes, perfect for a special evening.
Milestones
Milestones
3 minutes walking
A casual eatery offering a diverse menu with favorites like burgers and pasta, suitable for families.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
The Old Spaghetti Factory
4 minutes walking
Family-friendly restaurant known for its pasta dishes and charming atmosphere, connecting diners to heritage.
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
19 minutes walking
A bustling venue hosting concerts and sports events, vibrant nightlife atmosphere with something for everyone.
Chinatown Night Market
13 minutes walking
An evening market featuring local crafts, food stalls, and live music, family-friendly and lively atmosphere.
Getting around
City Centre
Victoria10 min  ·  2700 ft
Airports
Victoria Inner Harbour (YWH)6 min  ·  1700 ft
Victoria (YYJ)40 min  ·  16.4 mi
Unlock Exclusive Early Booking Rates
Plan ahead and get special discounts now!
Check Rates
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 enjoys a prime, central location near the harbor, making attractions like the parliament building easily accessible. Many guests appreciate the spacious rooms and comfortable beds, some also mentioning the renovated Gold lounge with its good selection of food for breakfast and evening hors d'oeuvres. While most found the hotel excellent for its age, a few guests have noted that some rooms could use updating. its classic aesthetic and proximity to shops and restaurants make it a delightful experience.
Show moreShow less
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
Gold Level service
Comfortable bed
Helpful staff
Grand entrance
Cons
Cramped suite
Unclean windows
Slow check-in
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.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Fairmont Empress Hotel
What are the check-in and check-out times at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Does Fairmont Empress Hotel have a swimming pool?
Guests can enjoy an indoor heated swimming pool available year-round.
What types of spa services are offered at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The award-winning Willow Stream Spa offers signature West Coast treatments unique to the region.
Which nearby attractions can be easily accessed from Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Royal BC Museum (0.5 km), Miniature World (0.5 km), and the Maritime Museum of BC (less than 1 km).
What dining options are available at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel features on-site dining at Q at the Empress and offers a traditional afternoon tea in the Lobby Lounge.
What are some of the in-room amenities at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi, cable TV, an in-room coffee maker, and air conditioning.
Are pets allowed at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Pets are allowed at the hotel.
Are there fitness facilities available at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Guests have access to a fitness centre and wellness services including a sauna and hot tub.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel staff speaks multiple languages to accommodate international guests.
How far is Fairmont Empress Hotel from the nearest airport?
The hotel is approximately 30 km from Victoria International Airport.
What business services does Fairmont Empress Hotel offer?
Business amenities include a business centre, meeting rooms, and express check-in/out services.
What options are available for children's entertainment at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel offers babysitting services and a children's menu in the restaurant.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room