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Historic architecture, next-level traditional afternoon tea and a MICHELIN-recommended restaurant?
This hotel has once again been named the #1 city hotel in Canada in the 2026 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, earning the top honour for the second consecutive year.
The annual Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards recognize leading hotels, destinations and travel experiences around the world based on reader survey results.
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The rankings are determined by factors such as rooms, facilities, location, service and dining experiences, making the awards a widely recognized benchmark in the hospitality industry.
What is Canada's most famous hotel?
Located in Victoria, the Fairmont Empress has been a landmark on the Inner Harbour since 1908.
Often referred to as “Canada’s Castle on the Coast,” the National Historic Site is known for its grand architecture, landscaped gardens, refined accommodations and the renowned Tea at the Empress experience.
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Over the past year, the hotel has continued to refresh its dining experiences. The Bengal has reopened as the hotel’s breakfast room, while Q at the Empress has been reimagined with a new design and menu focused on Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine and signature cocktails.
A major chapter in the hotel’s modern history began in 2014, when developer Nat Bosa acquired the property. Under his ownership, the hotel underwent the “Return of the Queen” renovation, a restoration project exceeding $60 million that was completed in 2017.
The project preserved the hotel’s historic character while introducing contemporary guest rooms, updated amenities and the Fairmont Gold luxury experience, which includes exclusive accommodations and a private lounge overlooking Victoria Harbour.
What are the Fairmont Empress’s key details and amenities?
Located in downtown Victoria, a 30-minute drive from the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (Highway 17) or a 2.5-hour Victoria Clipper ride from Seattle.
Afternoon tea is served daily in the Lobby Lounge, offering a classic selection of teas, pastries, and house-made clotted cream.
When it comes to dining, Q at the Empress serves Pacific Northwest cuisine and local cocktails, plus a renowned wine list.
The Fairmont Empress is pet-friendly with complimentary stay, a custom pet bed, and bowls upon arrival.
Don't miss the Fairmont Spa, the health club, the indoor heated pool, and the whirlpool.
For more information about the Fairmont Empress, click here.
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