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From139US$ /night
Check-in
04Mar2026Select date
Check-out
05Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

721 Government Street, Victoria, Canada, V8W 1W5
-
Close to the Inner Harbour
Great
8.9
9.1
/10
4.2
4.4
/5

Location

Fairmont Empress overlooks Victoria's Inner Harbour and is steps from downtown attractions, including the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. It is accessible via multiple transport options, including Helijet, which connects guests from Vancouver. The hotel stands as Canada's Castle on the Coast, blending history with a prime location.

Rooms

The hotel offers 431 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, many providing striking views of the Inner Harbour or the city. The recently renovated Fairmont Gold accommodations deliver exclusive amenities such as breakfast and evening canapés in a private lounge. Spaces include ample family-oriented options, with refined touches for business travelers.

Dining

Guests experience culinary excellence at Q at the Empress, emphasizing Pacific Northwest cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Afternoon Tea at the Empress, celebrated since 1908, presents a choice of premium teas paired with freshly baked scones and pastries. Seasonal dining options include inventive menus served at The Veranda, available for outdoor enjoyment.

Wellness

Fairmont Spa offers a serene setting for relaxation, providing treatments such as massages, facials, and holistic therapies. The wellness area includes a steam room, Finnish sauna, and mineral bath whirlpool, enhancing the restorative experience. Guests also enjoy access to a health club with advanced fitness equipment.

Family-Friendly Services

With the 'Kids Rule the Castle' package, families receive spacious accommodations, daily breakfast, and scavenger hunts designed to engage younger guests. The hotel offers amenities like cribs and high chairs upon request, catering to families' needs. Children can participate in themed activities, creating memorable experiences during their stay.

Highlights

Location: Overlooks Victoria's Inner Harbour .

Rooms: 431 well-appointed guest rooms .

Dining: Afternoon Tea at the Empress .

Wellness: Fairmont Spa with sauna .

Family-Friendly: 'Kids Rule the Castle' package .

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through Butchart Gardens for stunning floral displays.
  • Taste the famous Nanaimo bars at a local bakery like Sweet Angeline's.
  • Visit the Royal BC Museum for a deep dive into local history.
  • Explore the vibrant Fisherman's Wharf for fresh seafood and seals.
  • Take a whale watching tour to spot orcas off Victoria's coast.
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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
One Bedroom King Suite Harbour View
2 persons
550 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
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
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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

Dining at the Fairmont Empress Hotel offers a delightful exploration of local flavors and culinary artistry, anchored by the innovative creations of Executive Chef Morgan Wilson. With an elegant setting and a menu inspired by the Pacific Northwest, guests are invited to savor a true taste of the region.
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 a Pacific Northwest influence
Ambiance
A sophisticated dining space that elegantly blends turn-of-the-century charm with modern refinement, offering stunning views across the harbor.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include creative bites showcasing local seafood and vegetables, along with unique indulgences like gold-dusted macarons and handcrafted cocktails served with extravagant accompaniments.
Reservation
Recommended for lunch.
Breakfast and lunch; hours vary.

Lobby Lounge

Light snacks and refreshments in a relaxing setting
Ambiance
An airy, refined space that captures the essence of classic elegance, enhanced by the mellow sounds of live classical piano.
Key Offerings
Enjoy treats like avo toast and egg white frittatas featuring local ingredients, paired with artisan cocktails in a tranquil atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open throughout the day; 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
1002 Wharf St
Old Victoria Custom House
1200 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' walk
Fascinating exhibits on natural and human history; perfect for families. Offers free admission days.
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
4 minutes' walk
Architectural gem and seat of government. Offers guided tours showcasing its rich history.
Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Park
19 minutes' walk
Vast park featuring gardens, walking trails, and playgrounds; ideal for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle
30 minutes' walk
Historic Victorian-era mansion offering guided tours; stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Whale Watching Tours
5 minutes' walk
Exciting tours for thrill-seekers, departing from nearby. Booking recommended for best viewing opportunities.
Spa Treatments
5 minutes' walk
Relaxing spa options available nearby; ideal for unwinding with a massage or facial after a day out.
Bicycle Rentals
2 minutes' walk
Bike rentals available for exploring the scenic waterfront and nearby parks at your pace.
Q at The Empress
Q at The Empress
1 minute' walk
Renowned for its upscale dining and local ingredients; perfect for a luxurious meal or tea experience.
Milestones
Milestones
3 minutes' walk
Casual dining with a diverse menu; known for its vibrant atmosphere and signature nachos.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
The Old Spaghetti Factory
4 minutes' walk
Family-friendly Italian restaurant with classic pasta dishes in a charming historic setting.
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia
13 minutes' walk
Interactive exhibits celebrating maritime history; great option for families and history enthusiasts.
Chinatown
Chinatown
13 minutes' walk
Vibrant area with shops and eateries; hosts cultural events and nightlife, including seasonal festivals.
Black Ball Ferry Line
9 minutes' walk
Ferry service to Washington State; scenic views and occasional live music events on board!
Getting around
City Centre
Victoria10 min  ·  2700 ft
Airports
Victoria Inner Harbour Airport (YWH)6 min  ·  1700 ft
Victoria International Airport (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 score
Based on 1371 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
88%
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.3/10
Location
9.8/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Comfortable beds
Historic hotel
Friendly staff
Dog friendly
Cons
Small room
Poor view
Refund issues
Guest reviews
based on 5060 reviews
4/5
based on 1303 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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FAQs
About Fairmont Empress Hotel
What time is check-in and check-out at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
Is there parking available at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Public parking is available on-site for 35 CAD per day without the need for a reservation.
Does Fairmont Empress Hotel have a swimming pool?
The hotel features an indoor heated swimming pool, open year-round.
What dining options are available at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
On-site dining is offered at Q at the Empress, along with a bar/lounge area.
Where can guests enjoy breakfast at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Breakfast is served at Q at the Empress and through the exclusive Fairmont Gold lounge.
Are pets allowed at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel is pet-friendly and accommodates pets.
What room amenities are available at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and air conditioning.
What is the distance from Fairmont Empress Hotel to the Royal BC Museum?
The Royal BC Museum is a short 0.5 km walk from the hotel.
What spa services does Fairmont Empress Hotel offer?
The award-winning Willow Stream Spa provides signature West Coast treatments, a sauna, and a hot tub.
Is there a fitness center at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel has a fitness center available for guest use.
Which key attractions are located near Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Nearby attractions include the Royal London Wax Museum (0.5 km) and Christ Church Cathedral (0.5 km).
What types of views can guests enjoy from rooms at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Rooms offer views of either the Inner Harbour, the city, or the courtyard.
Does Fairmont Empress Hotel provide any business services?
The hotel features a business center and offers meeting facilities.
What recreational activities can guests engage in at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Guests can rent bicycles for cycling around the area.

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Check-in
04Mar2026Select date
Check-out
05Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room