Guest reviews The Fairmont Empress Hotel, Victoria

by Barbara M Ireland

Reflecting during Covid lockdown on a wonderful experience

As I sit here in Covid isolation I was recalling past holidays. One that hit the high spot was my trip to Victoria, Vancouver Island during October 2019. I had enjoyed my stay so much that I decided I should top it all with a farewell visit to the Fairmont Empress Hotel and try their renowned Empress gin - I deserved it, it had rained a lot! What a fantastic idea that turned out to be! I was brought to one of the best seats in the bar, with a view out to the harbour, as well as being able to see everything that was happening around me - perfect! While I was sipping the delicious purple gin, my waitress asked me if I'd like to have an Empress chocolate cake, courtesy of the bar manager - how could I refuse such a kind, generous offer? It was sublime - the real icing on the cake and made my visit to the Fairmont Empress such a memorable one. A big thank you to the bar manager and also to the staff for making my visit so wonderful.

by 344jeannal Wichita, Kansas

Outstanding

What can I say! The outside of the hotel was simply breathtaking, flowers everywhere beautifully groomed gardens, the hotel itself was amazing the majestic exterior has old world charm on overload. Originally when we were looking for a place for an overnight stay I referred to reviews here on TripAdvisor, with several that said it needed updating and there wasn’t working air conditioning, but I was willing to give it a chance, we were certainly glad! We had a room that had amazing views of the government building, and the harbor, and can’t describe how beautiful it was all lit up at night. The room was on the small side, as well as the bathroom but it was totally modern amenities. I definitely recommend to anyone making a trip to Victoria

by Holly L Spring, Texas

Loved the Fairmont Empress!

Such a lovely hotel in such a beautiful location! The hotel is wonderful, and the staff is so friendly and helpful. We really loved the Gold lounge, and the spa was wonderful. We would definitely stay here again!

by Jane r Vancouver, Canada

Wonderful hotel, great service!

My sister and I have just returned from a one night's stay at this great hotel. It was a birthday treat and we were delighted to be told that the room we booked had been upgraded to a great harbour view, the personalized note and chocolates were a lovely touch. The room was large, clean and well equipped with a mini fridge, coffee maker and bottled water. I had stayed there a few years ago before it had been refurbished, the new style is different but the hotel still retains it's former grandness. We ate breakfast there which was all very good. The staff were very welcoming and friendly, I would highly recommend this lovely hotel.

by Angela_LeFebvre

Everyone is royalty at the Empress

The building is beautiful and full of colonial and Indigenous history. The genuine warm welcome given by every single staff made me feel like royalty. I was greeted outside and helped into the building. I never had to open a door and wonder where I might need to go. The staff were engaged and interested in how they could make my stay even better. Quite frankly, I was spoiled, and I enjoyed it to the fullest.