Victoria’s iconic Fairmont Empress has just been named the #1 City Hotel in Canada in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards, earning global recognition as one of the top 500 hotels in the world.
The announcement came as part of the 30th anniversary of the magazine’s prestigious rankings, where nearly 180,000 readers cast over 657,000 votes to spotlight the very best in travel. Hotels were rated on everything from location and service to dining, value, and overall experience—criteria where the Empress clearly shone.
With a reader score of 94.44, Victoria’s Fairmont Empress beat out heavy hitters like Montreal’s Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons Hotel Montreal to take the top national honour. It also stood out as one of only three BC hotels to make the list, joining the Fairmont Pacific Rim and the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.
While readers praised the hotel’s prime waterfront location and timeless elegance, it’s the complete experience that set it apart. One reader called it “visually one of the most stunning hotels anywhere,” while another said, “[I’ve] been around this incredible establishment my entire life, and it only keeps getting better.”
Built in 1908 and affectionately known as Canada’s Castle on the Coast, the Empress has long been the crown jewel of downtown Victoria. Its famed Afternoon Tea, heritage architecture, and luxurious rooms continue to draw guests from around the world.
This recognition is a major milestone for the hotel, which underwent a transformative $60 million “Return of the Queen” renovation in 2017 under owner Nat Bosa. The upgrades preserved the hotel’s historic charm while introducing modern luxury, including the launch of the Fairmont Gold experience—an exclusive offering with 88 premium guest rooms, a private lounge, and sweeping harbour views.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our staff and our visionary owner, Nat Bosa,” said Dan McGowan, General Manager of the Fairmont Empress. “We are deeply grateful to our loyal guests, our supporters, our team, and Mr. Bosa for making this recognition possible.”
The hotel’s most recent updates include a new harbour view terrace opened in 2024, with additional capital investments planned over the next two years. With its eyes firmly on the future, the Empress continues to elevate itself as not just a historic landmark—but a global destination for luxury travellers.
In a competitive field dominated by hospitality giants like Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton, the Fairmont Empress’ top ranking underscores its enduring charm, commitment to excellence, and unique place in Canadian—and international—travel culture.
