TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

The Empress is a massive hotel with an impressive staff. We found the staff to be attentive and enjoyed some of the more unique perks in our room such as a valet stand for an outfit. Our stay included breakfast which we enjoyed delivered to our room daily. We self-parked at the hotel and found that to be preferable to the valet just for the frequency with which we went to the car. The grounds, of course, were gorgeous (so many beautiful flowers) and the location is superb for enjoying all that Victoria has to offer. We also enjoyed going across the street to Milestones for dinner. It was truly a very luxurious experience and we'll plan to return!

The Empress is THE place to stay in Victoria. Wonderfully located and such a wonderful experience. Except for a minor inconvenience at check-in the four night stay was the best hotel experience I’ve had in years. Housekeeping and the restaurants are superior. Kris in the Empress restaurant always met us with a smile each morning. The exterior of the hotel with all the tulips was a site to behold. The hop on hop bus is outside and so is the shuttle to Butchart Gardens. This hotel is luxury at its finest. I hope to return next year.

We arrived at 1:00 expecting to check in, clerk said room not ready, I showed her room reservation showing check in tine of noon, she was not interested, offered a different room for more money. Finally got in after 3:00, room rather small, no water offered. Decor very nice, had a drink in lounge, $21 , underwhelming. Very expensive, which I guess you expect at Fairmont. Definitely nicer hotels in Victoria. We have stayed at Fairmont YVR, Jasper and Hotel Vancouver.

My wife and I had a rocky start with our check-in, experiencing a miscommunication about the time our room was ready. We weren’t completely happy with this, as well as some other small grievances. This was remedied by Sarah at the Empress, who heard our complaints and upgraded us to a newer suite, which has made our honeymoon journey feel that much more special. Only good things to say about the staff; they clearly have a lot to manage with the size of this hotel, as well as the volume of guests. Would now recommend happily to stay at this hotel, and engage with the friendly and helpful staff.

Beware this hotel is gigantic and if you are old or handicapped ie need a wheelchair at the airport you may request a room near a elevator. We are elderly and had a 10 minute walk to a elevator. Otherwise a great choice. Room service was excellent and we also enjoyed the long American dollar. +43%