Victoria’s iconic Fairmont Empress has once again claimed the title of Canada’s No. 1 City Hotel, earning top honours in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards for the second year in a row. The recognition reinforces the legendary property’s standing as one of North America’s most celebrated luxury hotels and highlights Victoria as a premier destination for travelers seeking history, elegance, and exceptional hospitality.
A Canadian Icon Continues to Shine
Overlooking Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour since 1908, Fairmont Empress has long been one of Canada’s most recognizable hotels. Often referred to as “Canada’s Castle on the Coast,” the National Historic Site is renowned for its grand Edwardian architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, luxurious accommodations, and its world-famous Afternoon Tea experience.
The latest Travel + Leisure recognition is based on reader votes evaluating hotels across several categories, including guest rooms, location, service, dining, and overall experience, making the award one of the travel industry’s most respected accolades.
Excellence Built on Heritage and Hospitality
For General Manager Dan McGowan, the repeat recognition reflects more than the beauty of the historic property.
He credits the hotel’s loyal guests, dedicated staff, and owner Nat Bosa for continually investing in both the guest experience and the preservation of one of Canada’s landmark hotels. Their collective efforts have helped ensure the Fairmont Empress remains a destination visitors return to year after year.
New Dining Experiences Elevate the Stay
Guests visiting the Fairmont Empress will discover several exciting enhancements to the hotel’s culinary offerings.
One of the property’s most historic spaces, The Bengal, has reopened as the hotel’s breakfast restaurant, bringing new life to a beloved Victoria institution.
Meanwhile, Q at the Empress has undergone a complete transformation, unveiling a refreshed design alongside an elevated menu showcasing Pacific Northwest cuisine paired with handcrafted cocktails and an award-winning wine program. The revitalized restaurant offers both hotel guests and locals another compelling reason to visit the iconic property.
A Luxury Hotel That Continues to Evolve
Although steeped in history, Fairmont Empress continues to invest heavily in its future.
A major turning point came after entrepreneur Nat Bosa acquired the hotel in 2014, launching the landmark “Return of the Queen” restoration. The more than $60 million renovation, completed in 2017, carefully preserved the building’s historic character while introducing contemporary luxury throughout the property.
More recently, guests have benefited from the addition of the Fairmont Gold experience, featuring 88 premium guestrooms and suites, a spacious private lounge overlooking Victoria Harbour, and exclusive services designed for travelers seeking an even more personalized stay. Continued investment is ensuring the hotel remains among Canada’s finest luxury accommodations.
More Than a Hotel—A Victoria Landmark
Few hotels are as closely connected to their city as the Fairmont Empress.
Situated directly across from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the property places visitors within walking distance of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum, boutique shopping, waterfront dining, whale-watching excursions, and the city’s charming historic streets.
Combined with its elegant spa, award-winning restaurants, signature Afternoon Tea, and exceptional service, the hotel continues to define luxury travel on Vancouver Island.
Why Travelers Continue to Choose the Fairmont Empress
The Fairmont Empress has successfully balanced more than a century of heritage with modern luxury, creating an experience that appeals equally to first-time visitors and returning guests.
Its blend of timeless architecture, contemporary accommodations, refined dining, wellness experiences, and one of Canada’s most iconic Afternoon Tea traditions has made it a destination in its own right. Winning Travel + Leisure’s top Canadian city hotel award for a second consecutive year is further confirmation that this historic Victoria landmark continues to set the standard for hospitality in Canada.
Top Reasons to Stay at Fairmont Empress
- Named Canada’s #1 City Hotel in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards
- Historic waterfront location overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour
- Home to the world-famous Afternoon Tea at the Empress
- Newly refreshed Q at the Empress restaurant and bar
- Reopened The Bengal breakfast restaurant
- Luxurious Fairmont Gold accommodations with private lounge
- Fairmont Spa featuring signature West Coast wellness experiences
- Walking distance to Victoria’s top attractions, shops, and museums
