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From139US$ /night
Check-in
29Dec2025Select date
Check-out
30Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Overview

721 Government Street, Victoria, Canada, V8W 1W5
-
Next to the Inner Harbour
Great
8.9
9.1
/10
4.2
4.5
/5

Location

Fairmont Empress occupies a prime location overlooking Victoria's Inner Harbour and is steps from British Columbia's Parliament Buildings. The hotel is easily accessible, with the Helijet terminal located just a mile away. Guests arriving by plane will find Victoria International Airport approximately 26 km from the property.

Accommodations

The hotel features 431 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, many offering stunning views of the Inner Harbour. Fairmont Gold rooms provide an exclusive hotel-within-a-hotel experience, complete with a private lounge and evening canapes. Spacious family-friendly accommodations come equipped with amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and kids' robes.

Dining

Fairmont Empress offers a range of dining options with seasonal menus celebrating Pacific Northwest cuisine. The renowned Q at the Empress provides local ingredients transformed into sophisticated dishes, while the Veranda features scenic outdoor dining. The hotel is also known for its traditional Afternoon Tea, served on Royal China.

Wellness

Fairmont Spa at Fairmont Empress is Vancouver Island's premier spa, offering a comprehensive menu of treatments that cater to holistic wellbeing. Amenities include a steam room, Finnish sauna, and mineral bath whirlpool, enhancing relaxation for guests. The hotel's health club features state-of-the-art fitness equipment supporting a variety of wellness activities.

Family-Friendly & Pet-Friendly

Families can utilize the 'Kids Rule the Castle' package, which includes activities like scavenger hunts and family breakfasts. The hotel also provides complimentary amenities for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for all ages. Additionally, Fairmont Empress welcomes pets with special amenities, allowing them to stay free.

Highlights

Location: Overlooking Victoria's Inner Harbour

Rooms: 431 beautifully appointed guest rooms

Dining: Afternoon Tea & seasonal Pacific Northwest cuisine

Wellness: Premier Fairmont Spa with various treatments

Family: 'Kids Rule the Castle' package available

Pets: Complimentary stay for pets

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Butchart Gardens for breathtaking floral displays.
  • Try the local fish and chips at Red Fish Blue Fish on the harbor.
  • Explore the Royal BC Museum for a deep dive into local history.
  • Stroll through the Inner Harbour and admire the Fairmont Empress.
  • Discover hidden art at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.
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Choose Your Room

Our listed hotels offer a variety of room types—double rooms, family suites, or deluxe options—all with features like breakfast, flexible cancellation policies, and exclusive deals.
Deluxe Room One Queen Bed Harbour View
2 persons
32 m² 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
One Bedroom King Suite Harbour View
2 persons
51 m² 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Executive Suite Two Queen Beds City View
2 persons
54 m² 
2 Double beds
Coffee machine
Junior Suite City View 1 King
2 persons
38 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Coffee machine
Heating
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Room Rates & Availability Tracker

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Amenities

Thoughtful hotel amenities for a comfortable stay

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

At the Fairmont Empress Hotel, dining transforms into a rich tapestry of local flavors and elegant ambiance, where guests can indulge in beautifully crafted dishes. Signature offerings showcase the best of Pacific Northwest cuisine, artfully prepared by Executive Chef Morgan Wilson in stunning surroundings that encourage relaxation and enjoyment.
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
An elegant space that combines turn-of-the-century charm with modern refinement.
Key Offerings
Experience creative bites like avocado toast and egg white frittata, complemented by extraordinary cocktails, including signature drinks served with luxurious accompaniments like gold dusted macarons.
Reservation
Recommended
Hours vary; check locally for specifics.

Lobby Lounge

Light bites and afternoon teas
Ambiance
A bright and airy lounge channeling a turn-of-the-century elegance, featuring the mellow sounds of live classical piano.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere perfect for sipping expertly crafted cocktails or savoring delightful light fare while taking in stunning views.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary; check locally for specifics.

Hotel Location

721 Government Street, Victoria, Canada, V8W 1W5
Map view
721 Government Street, Victoria, Canada, V8W 1W5
Nearby
Museum
Royal BC Museum
370 m
Public Building
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
310 m
Victoria
Inner Harbour
150 m
Museum
Miniature World
300 m
Zoo
Victoria Bug Zoo
360 m
Victoria
Government Street
310 m
Square
Bastion Square
510 m
Shopping Area
The Bay Centre
520 m
St-Ann's Academy Office 835 Humboldt St 2nd Floor
St. Ann's Academy National Historic Site
560 m
Gallery
Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature
340 m
Government Street and Belleville Street
Emily Carr Statue
130 m
Victoria
Wharf Street
500 m
Restaurants
Q at The Empress
20 m
721 Government St The Fairmont Empress
The Tea Lobby
30 m
721 Government St
Milestones
170 m
812 Wharf St
The Old Spaghetti Factory
330 m
703 Douglas Street
Bartholomew's English-Style Pub
390 m
777 Douglas St Entrance on Humboldt Street
Steamship Grill & Bar
330 m
470 Belleville Street
Browns Socialhouse
360 m
809 Douglas St
Milano
220 m
817 Government St
The Courtney Room
310 m
619 Courtney Street
Explore Victoria
Explore Victoria
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Royal BC Museum
Royal BC Museum
5 minutes' walk
Indigenous history and natural wonders showcase within the museum. Perfect for families and history buffs.
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
British Columbia Parliament Buildings
4 minutes' walk
Impressive architecture and guided tours highlight the political history of the region.
Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Park
19 minutes' walk
Stunning gardens, playgrounds, and petting zoos provide family-friendly activities in a beautiful setting.
Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle
5 minutes' drive
Victorian-era mansion with rich history and exquisite architecture. Guided tours available.
Water Taxi Tours
2 minutes' walk
Scenic rides through the Inner Harbour. Ideal for viewing marine life and coastal landscapes.
Yoga on the Beach
15 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga sessions offered at nearby Ross Bay Beach. Classes vary by season; check schedule.
Biking at Clover Point Park
25 minutes' walk
Biking path along the coast with stunning ocean views. Rentals available nearby for convenience.
Q at The Empress
Q at The Empress
1 minute' walk
Modern Canadian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Reservations recommended for dinner.
Milestones
Milestones
3 minutes' walk
Casual atmosphere with a diverse menu, including gluten-free options. Family-friendly environment.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
The Old Spaghetti Factory
4 minutes' walk
Italian favorites served in a historic setting. Offers vegetarian choices and a relaxed dining experience.
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
4 minutes' drive
Venues for concerts and sporting events. Check the schedule for family-friendly shows.
Victoria Bug Zoo
Victoria Bug Zoo
5 minutes' walk
Interactive and educational fun for all ages. Home to various bug species and special events.
Chinatown
Chinatown
13 minutes' walk
Vibrant cultural hub with shops and eateries. Enjoy local art festivals and street performances.
Transportation Tips
City Centre
Victoria10 min  ·  800 m
Airports
Victoria Inner Harbour Airport (YWH)6 min  ·  500 m
Victoria International Airport (YYJ)40 min  ·  26.4 km
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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
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:
399
Questions of the users
About Fairmont Empress Hotel
Are the rates displayed in Canadian Dollars or US Dollars?
12 November 2024
Rates are presented in Canadian Dollars.
Is there a room option with kitchen facilities or a microwave available?
15 January 2025
A Governor General Suite features a kitchenette, and additional microwaves can be provided upon request, subject to availability.
Is it possible to reserve adjoining rooms for a larger family group?
23 February 2025
Adjoining rooms are available by booking a Fairmont King and a Deluxe room with 2 Queen beds. This combination needs to be confirmed based on availability during the booking process.
Can you provide me with details about the spa services offered?
02 March 2025
For comprehensive information and to make an appointment, please check the Willow Stream Spa section on the website.
What perks are included when I book a Fairmont Gold room?
10 March 2025
Fairmont Gold reservations come with complimentary breakfast for two, evening canapés, access to a private lounge, and dedicated concierge services.
Are pets allowed on the property?
08 April 2025
Pets are welcome at the hotel, but must not be left unattended in rooms and cannot access dining and wellness areas.
Are all hotel amenities like the pool and fitness center currently operational?
15 April 2025
Yes, amenities including the indoor pool, fitness center, and spa are open, with the spa operating from Wednesday through Sunday.
Is parking available at the property, and is it complimentary?
22 May 2025
Parking is available at a rate of $33.00 per night, and the hotel is pet-friendly without extra fees.
Can you tell me the difference between a city view room and a Fairmont city view room?
30 May 2025
There's no distinction in terms of features; both types represent the same room category.
Does the room rate cover breakfast services?
10 June 2025
Room rates do not include breakfast. Breakfast is served a la carte and is available in-house.
At what time does breakfast service start each day?
18 June 2025
Breakfast is served daily from 6:30 am at Restaurant Q and through In-Room Dining.
Are there any room options available that feature balconies?
25 June 2025
Unfortunately, there are no rooms with balcony options at Fairmont Empress.
Is there a discount available for ferry tickets when booking a stay?
05 July 2025
Unfortunately, there are no discount programs with BC Ferries associated with stays at Fairmont Empress.
Is there a pet policy that allows multiple pets to stay in a single room?
15 July 2025
Yes, the hotel welcomes two pets in one room at no additional charge; just inform during booking.

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