Fairmont Empress has been ranked the #1 City Hotel in Canada in the 2025 edition—and 30th anniversary—of Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards. In addition, the magnificent property has been named to Travel + Leisure’s 2025 T+L 500 list of best hotels in the world, earning itself an impressive placement as a standout property amongst global travelers.
Each year, Travel + Leisure readers cast their votes to define the very best in travel and hospitality. The Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards recognize the top hotels, resorts, destinations, and travel experiences worldwide, as voted by readers in the magazine’s annual survey. Today, the latest results revealed that nearly 180,000 people participated, casting over 657,000 votes, to rate hotels on criteria such as rooms, facilities, location, service, restaurants, and value—making the awards a definitive benchmark for excellence in the travel and hospitality sector.
Since 1908, Fairmont Empress, often referred to as ‘Canada’s Castle on the Coast,’ has been the crown jewel of the City of Victoria and a beloved destination for travelers from around the world. With its storied history, architectural grandeur, exquisite accommodations, and iconic Afternoon Tea program, the hotel continues to charm local and international guests. These recent accolades solidify the hotel’s position as a leader in global hospitality, making it a must-visit destination in Canada.
“We are incredibly honoured to be recognized as the #1 City Hotel in Canada with Travel + Leisure’s readers. It is beyond rewarding to know that so many of our valued guests voted us as their hotel of choice in the World’s Best Awards,” said Dan McGowan, General Manager of Fairmont Empress.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our staff and our visionary owner, Nat Bosa, whose passion and continual investment ensure Fairmont Empress remains a source of pride for our community and beacon for travelers worldwide. We are deeply grateful to our loyal guests, our supporters, our team, and Mr. Bosa for making this recognition possible.”
A pivotal chapter in the hotel’s legacy began in 2014, when Nat Bosa purchased the property. With a grand vision, Mr. Bosa spearheaded the remarkable $60+ million ‘Return of the Queen’ renovation, meticulously revitalizing the hotel in 2017 while retaining its heritage and introducing contemporary design and amenities. His continued investment in Fairmont Empress was exemplified by the launch of the new Fairmont Gold experience, which features 88 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, an exclusive spacious lounge with sweeping harbour views, and a host of elevated amenities designed to offer guests the ultimate in comfort and sophistication. In 2024, the hotel welcomed a new harbour view terrace, and the capital investment planned over the next two years demonstrates his commitment to make Fairmont Empress a top luxury hotel in the world and a source of pride for the local community.
