A 3-Day Stay at the Empress Hotel in Victoria, BC: Luxury, Adventure, and Culinary Delights

Victoria, British Columbia, is known for its charming harbor, historic architecture, and rich cultural experiences. Nestled in the heart of the city, the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel offers the perfect base for a luxurious and memorable stay. Over three days, you’ll experience the best of Victoria — from whale watching adventures to top-tier dining — all while soaking in the elegance of one of Canada’s most famous hotels.

Getting There from Vancouver

Reaching Victoria from Vancouver is part of the adventure. You have a few scenic options:

BC Ferries – Depart from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (south of Vancouver) for a 1.5-hour ferry ride through the Gulf Islands to Swartz Bay. From there, it’s about a 30-minute drive or bus ride into downtown Victoria.
Harbour Air Seaplane – For a quicker and more memorable trip, take a 35-minute seaplane flight from Coal Harbour in downtown Vancouver to Victoria’s Inner Harbour — you’ll land just steps from the Empress Hotel.

Day 1: Check-In and Explore the Empress

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the grandeur of the Fairmont Empress, a historic building dating back to 1908. The hotel’s classic Edwardian architecture, ivy-covered walls, and stunning harbor views set the tone for a luxurious stay.

Afternoon Tea at the Empress

Start your stay with the hotel's famous Afternoon Tea in the elegant Tea Lobby. Sip on loose-leaf teas from their signature collection while indulging in house-made scones, finger sandwiches, and delicate pastries.

Stroll Along the Inner Harbour

After tea, take a leisurely walk along the Inner Harbour. The waterfront is lined with street performers, small shops, and charming cafes. Stop by the historic British Columbia Parliament Buildings to admire their architecture and catch them lit up at night.

Day 2: Whale Watching Adventure and Local Dining

Morning: Whale Watching Tour

Victoria is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Book a tour with Prince of Whales or Eagle Wing Tours for a chance to spot orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, and sea lions. Most tours depart from the Inner Harbour, making it easy to access from the Empress.

Lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish

After your tour, head to Red Fish Blue Fish, a casual but legendary spot for sustainable seafood. Try their tacones (hand-rolled tacos with wild-caught fish), fish and chips, and seafood chowder — all served from a converted shipping container on the pier.

Evening: Dinner at Nubo Japanese Tapas

For dinner, head to Nubo Japanese Tapas, one of Victoria's top Japanese restaurants. Nubo offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine with small plates perfect for sharing. Highlights include the aburi sushi, karaage chicken, and miso-marinated black cod. Their sake selection and Japanese-inspired cocktails complement the meal perfectly.

Day 3: Gardens, History, and Cocktails

Morning: Visit Butchart Gardens

A trip to Victoria wouldn’t be complete without visiting the world-famous Butchart Gardens. Take a 30-minute drive from downtown to explore 55 acres of beautifully maintained floral displays, including the Sunken Garden and the Rose Garden.

Lunch at Blue Fox Cafe

Head back to downtown Victoria for brunch or lunch at Blue Fox Cafe, a local favorite known for hearty portions and creative dishes. Try their signature eggs benedict or French toast — but be prepared for a short wait, as it's a popular spot.

Afternoon: Royal BC Museum

Spend your afternoon at the Royal BC Museum to learn about British Columbia’s natural and human history. The Indigenous Peoples Gallery and the life-size woolly mammoth are highlights.

Evening: Cocktails at Q Bar

End your stay with cocktails at Q Bar inside the Empress. The stylish lounge serves expertly crafted cocktails with a local twist. Try the Empress 1908 Gin — infused with butterfly pea blossom for a striking purple hue — while soaking in views of the harbor.

Stay Iconic

A three-day stay at the Empress Hotel combines luxury, adventure, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re sipping tea in the historic lobby, spotting orcas off the coast, or indulging in locally sourced cuisine, Victoria offers an unforgettable escape that blends history and modern charm.