After reaching second-best in 2024 – up from third in 2023 – the Fairmont Empress in Victoria has claimed the throne as best city hotel in Canada, according to Travel + Leisure readers.
In selecting the Fairmont Empress as No. 1 City Hotel in Canada in the 2025 World’s Best Awards, readers referenced the Empress’s prime location, perched in pride-of-place above B.C. capital’s Inner Harbour.
The original hotel, known as The Empress Hotel, opened in 1908, but don’t let its age fool you: while the hotel feels connected to its roots, there’s nothing stuffy or antiquated about it, according to the magazine.
“This award – voted by thousands of global travellers – marks a proud moment not just for the hotel, but for Canada’s hospitality industry. As one of the country’s most storied and celebrated hotels, the Empress continues to set the standard for luxury travel experiences rooted in heritage, elevated design, and standout service,” the Empress said in a news release announcing the win.
To celebrate, the hotel created a new cocktail fittingly named The Leading Lady – in a nod to the hotel’s legendary nickname – crafted with Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, Absolut Elyx and Lillet.
Two Vancouver Fairmont properties claim the other two B.C. spots in the Top 10 with Pacific Rim at No. 7 and Hotel Vancouver at No. 9. The rest are in Ontario and Quebec, including Montreal’s Ritz Carlton in second and Four Seasons in third.
Find the full list at travelandleisure.com.
Travellers also voted for the Top 5 best Canadian resorts, with B.C. claiming the top three spots: Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler, Fairmont Chateau Whistler and The Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino.
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