What is the check-in and check-out policy at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
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Fairmont Empress Hotel, Victoria
139US$
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Key details
About the Hotel
721 Government Street,
Victoria,
Canada,
V8W 1W5,
British Columbia
- Close to the Inner Harbour
Great
8.9
9.1
4.3
4.4
Loved by Fairmont Empress Hotel guests
"The Gold Lounge had a beautiful patio overlooking the beautiful grounds and the harbour."
"The location and building can't be beaten."
"Our $100 upgrade including snacks, delicious afternoon hors d'oeuvres, various non alcoholic drinks (alcohol for purchase), a huge breakfast buffet as well as a luxurious room with harbor view."
Rooms and Suites
Fairmont Empress, Canada's Castle on the Coast, provides rooms and suites with views of the Inner Harbour, city, or courtyard. Rooms have marble bathrooms with rainfall showers. Fairmont Gold rooms have access to a private lounge with complimentary breakfast and evening canapés. Select rooms have sitting areas. Family friendly accommodations include cribs, high chairs, stepping stools, and kids Fairmont robes upon request.
Dining at Fairmont
Q at the Empress serves Pacific Northwest cuisine with ingredients from local farms and the chef's garden. The restaurant offers treats such as avo toast and egg white frittata. Afternoon Tea at the Empress in the Lobby Lounge features 21 varieties of tea, finger sandwiches, scones with strawberry jam, and pastries served on china gifted by Queen Elizabeth II. The hotel makes the strawberry jam from local berries, honey from own bee hives, and lavender from rooftop garden. Q Bar offers cocktails, wine, and local craft beers.
Leisure and Wellness
The hotel has an indoor heated swimming pool, whirlpool, children's wading pool, and saunas. The fitness center includes stationary bikes, ellipticals, stair climbers, treadmills, free weights, and weight machines. BMW bikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Willow Stream Spa provides West Coast treatments inspired by Vancouver Island, its forests, and the ocean. Treatments include the Salish Sea Vitality, which incorporates a wild seaweed scrub and massage with sea kelp lotion.
Location and Access
Fairmont Empress is located in downtown Victoria, near the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Victoria International Airport is 17 miles (27 km) away, with a 30-minute travel time by car. Helijet operates a 35-minute service from Vancouver Harbour, with a terminal one mile (1.6km) from the hotel. The Seattle to Victoria Clipper ferry connects Seattle with Vancouver Island, arriving at the Belleville Terminal in downtown Victoria. Harbour Air and Kenmore Air float plane terminal is across the street from Fairmont Empress.
Hotel Services
Fairmont Empress provides valet parking for $51 per night and self-parking for $37 per night. Electric car charging is available. The hotel has accessible rooms. High-speed internet access is available in guest rooms, public spaces, and meeting rooms. Pets stay free. Winston, the hotel's canine ambassador, is available for walks. Fairmont Gold Floor guests receive complimentary breakfast, evening cocktail canapés, and midday snacks.
“The iconic Empress balances its celebrated history with contemporary luxury, particularly within the exclusive Fairmont Gold experience. Afternoon tea remains a signature draw, while updated dining spaces emphasize local ingredients and culinary artistry. I appreciate the thoughtful blend of tradition and modern comfort.”
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Select your room type
Cozy rooms, spacious suites, and family-friendly homes, all with flexible cancellation policies & special deals
Junior Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
410 sq. feet
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Coffee machine
Heating
room details
Executive Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
410 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Heating
room details
One Bedroom Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
455 sq. feet
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Coffee machine
Heating
room details
Fairmont Gold One Bedroom Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
420 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Heating
room details
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Price and room availability calendar
Check availability and rates for your selected dates!
Facilities
Enjoy premium amenities for a relaxing stay with your pet
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
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Dining Onsite
The Fairmont Empress Hotel offers a delightful array of dining experiences that showcase the vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest. With an emphasis on local ingredients and creative culinary artistry, guests can savor exquisite dishes in elegant settings, all while enjoying the stunning views of Victoria's Inner Harbour.
Q at The Empress
American, inspired by the Pacific Northwest
Ambiance
An elegant dining room that reflects timeless sophistication, paired with stunning views of Victoria's Inner Harbour.
Key Offerings
Featuring dishes crafted by Executive Chef Morgan Wilson, menu highlights include avocado toast and egg white frittata complemented by fresh local produce. The cocktails are served with decadent accompaniments like gold-dusted macarons, offering a unique twist to classic beverages.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary; please check for specific meal times.
Lobby Lounge
Light bites and cocktails
Ambiance
An airy space adorned with turn-of-the-century elegance, where mellow classical piano floats through the refined surroundings.
Key Offerings
Guests can unwind with thoughtfully crafted cocktails while enjoying light snacks, all in a picturesque locale that captures the essence of luxury and relaxation.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary; please check for specific meal times.
Fairmont Empress Hotel Location
721 Government Street,
Victoria,
Canada,
V8W 1W5,
British Columbia
Map view
721 Government Street,
Victoria,
Canada,
V8W 1W5,
British Columbia
City landmarks
Park
Beacon Hill Park
5100 ft
Castle
Craigdarroch Castle
1.4
mi
Park
Fisherman's Wharf Park
4600 ft
Museum
Helmcken House
2100 ft
Stadium
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
5100 ft
Landmark
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia
3500 ft
Landmark
Chinatown
3300 ft
Church
St Andrew's Cathedral
2700 ft
Landmark
Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse
4900 ft
Public Building
Victoria City Hall
3500 ft
Landmark
Black Ball Ferry Line
2400 ft
Landmark
Old Town
2100 ft
Landmark
Terry Fox Statue
5000 ft
Landmark
Fan Tan Alley
3100 ft
Church
Christ Church Cathedral
3000 ft
Garden
Government House
1.5
mi
Museum
Emily Carr House
3000 ft
Landmark
Point Ellice House
1.5
mi
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
Royal BC Museum
5 minutes walking
Showcasing British Columbia's natural and human history, this museum features interactive exhibits and IMAX films.
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
4 minutes walking
A stunning architectural landmark, the Parliament Buildings offer guided tours to experience the province's political history.
Fisherman's Wharf Park
17 minutes walking
A lively waterfront area with colorful floating homes, shops, and eateries, perfect for a scenic stroll or a meal by the water.
Beacon Hill Park
19 minutes walking
This beautiful park features gardens, walking trails, and a petting zoo, providing a perfect family-friendly escape.
Q at The Empress
1 minute walking
Offering a fine dining experience with British Columbia's regional cuisine, this venue features locally sourced ingredients.
Milestones
3 minutes walking
A contemporary chain restaurant with a varied menu, known for its warm ambiance and popular cocktails.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
4 minutes walking
Family-friendly Italian dining featuring classic pasta dishes in a charming, historic setting.
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
19 minutes walking
A venue for live sports and concerts, offering a vibrant atmosphere for fans of all ages.
Chinatown
13 minutes walking
An iconic neighborhood featuring unique shops, eateries, and cultural events that celebrate Victoria's multicultural heritage.
Getting around
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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.
Show moreShow less
Pros
Great location
Gold lounge food
Helpful staff
Comfortable room
Charming grounds
Cons
Complicated check-in
Crib availability
Room coffee
Plastic on floor
Guest reviewsbased on 2616 reviews
William from United Kingdom
Couple
Fairmont City View 2 Double
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 17, 2026
9.5/10
wonderful gold level stay
concierge servicestaff anticipationbeautiful groundsold air conditioning
i really enjoyed the gold level concierge service, it felt perfect. the staff showed great anticipation of needs. the grounds were beautiful (i especially liked the flower arrangements). breakfast was great, and the drinks were lovely.
the air conditioning felt quite old in all areas except our room. the rooms also seemed very old.
Service
9/10
the staff was warm and cute, they constantly checked on us without seeming intrusive. they were super friendly.
Location
10/10
the hotel has a perfect location near the train station. the hotel overlooks the harbor and sits close to some of our favorite restaurants and shopping spots (all within walking distance).
0 Helpful
|
William from United Kingdom
Single
fairmont city view 1 queen
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 15, 2025
7/10
attentive staffvalet standbreakfast optionspoor air conditioningold rooms
the staff was attentive (i really appreciated that) and the service was excellent. our room included some unique perks, like a valet stand for an outfit. i also enjoyed breakfast delivered to my room daily. the grounds were gorgeous with so many beautiful flowers.
the air conditioning wasn't great. i felt very hot everywhere except in our room. the rooms were also old.
0 Helpful
catherine from canada
Couple
fairmont city view 1 queen
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 27, 2025
8.8/10
Historic building. Slight a/c issue
gold levelexcellent amenitybeautiful groundrelaxing reception
the gold level concierge was perfect. the bellman, the room, and the amenities were all excellent. the staff seemed to anticipate all needs. the grounds were beautiful! i found it hard to leave the evening reception because it was so relaxing.
the air conditioning was not great. i felt hot everywhere except in my room. also, the rooms were somewhat old. i would have preferred a more modern a/c system throughout the building.
Dining
9/10
breakfast service was quick. drinks were lovely and quickly prepared by the bartenders. staff were attentive to all guests.
Service
9/10
i appreciated the concierge service. the concierge helped me book excursions. the concierge answered every question i had efficiently.
Facilities
9/10
the grounds include beehives. the honey served at tea comes directly from these hives. the on-site shops offered a variety of souvenirs.
Rooms
8/10
The room had comfortable beds. housekeeping was thorough and caring. They ensured everything was clean daily. the room included necessary amenities.
0 Helpful
|
FAQs
About Fairmont Empress Hotel
How far is Fairmont Empress Hotel from the Royal BC Museum?
The hotel is a short 0.5 km walk from the Royal BC Museum.
Does Fairmont Empress Hotel offer on-site dining options?
The hotel features on-site dining options at the Q at the Empress, as well as a bar and lounge area.
What amenities are available at the Willow Stream Spa in Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The spa offers signature West Coast treatments, a sauna, hot tub, and fitness centre.
What types of room amenities can guests expect at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Rooms include Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and in-room coffee makers.
Can guests bring pets to Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Pets are allowed at the hotel.
What types of activities can guests engage in at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Guests can enjoy activities such as cycling and use of the indoor heated swimming pool.
Are there any children's services available at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel offers babysitting and child services, along with a children's menu.
How far is Fairmont Empress Hotel from downtown Victoria?
The hotel is approximately 1 km from downtown Victoria.
What is unique about dining at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel is renowned for its traditional afternoon tea served in the elegant Lobby Lounge.
What are the closest attractions to Fairmont Empress Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Miniature World and the Maritime Museum of BC, both less than 1 km away.
What is the fitness facility like at Fairmont Empress Hotel?
The hotel features a well-equipped gym as part of its wellness centre.
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