Fairmont Empress Victoria Hotel

Fairmont Empress Victoria Hotel

Built in 1908 on Victoria's Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress has welcomed royalty in the same rooms it welcomes guests today, and history still shows in the dramatic high ceilings of its social spaces and in Tea at the Empress, a tradition the hotel calls one of the world's most iconic afternoon tea experiences. Its 477 rooms, spread across eight floors, range from Deluxe King and Queen rooms with blackout blinds and mini bars to Deluxe Quadruple rooms with Nespresso machines and Fairmont pillow-top beds; a CAD 100 daily damage deposit is taken at check-in, a detail worth knowing before you arrive. The hotel sits within walking distance of downtown Victoria, and staff move between languages from Arabic to Korean without missing a beat. Inside, there is an indoor heated pool, a spa tub, sauna and steam room, plus a gym and fitness centre for anyone who wants to work rather than lounge. Meeting rooms and event space built for up to 1,200 guests, and a location next to the Victoria Conference Centre, mean the lobby often fills with name badges as much as sightseers, which suits delegates and wedding parties more than anyone hoping for a quiet corner. Pets are allowed, families are catered for with kids' club and highchairs, and the property carries both Biosphere and Green Key certification for anyone weighing sustainability credentials. Checkout is 11am, check-in from 4pm. What it is not is understated; the grandeur is the point, and travellers allergic to formality will find better fits elsewhere in town. Built in 1908 on Victoria's Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress pairs royal history with an indoor pool, spa and meeting space for 1,200 guests. Afternoon Tea at the Empress remains the signature draw, better suited to delegates and celebrations than travellers wanting quiet.