There’s something undeniably special about afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel. It’s more than just tea—it’s a full experience, steeped in tradition and elegance.
But is it really worth the price? And does it live up to the hype?
Let’s break it down and see what makes this iconic Victoria tradition a must-try (or not).
What Is Tea at the Empress in Victoria?
⚠️ Tourist without a car? Your best bet for getting over for tea is getting the bus to Victoria from downtown Vancouver. You won’t need to lift a finger.
Tea at the Fairmont Empress is one of the best things to do in Victoria.
Served in the elegant Lobby Lounge, this British-inspired afternoon tea has been a tradition since 1908.
It’s all about delicate finger sandwiches, fresh scones with clotted cream, and premium loose-leaf teas.
So why should you consider splurging on this experience?
- ✅ Historic setting – You’re sipping tea in a legendary hotel where royalty and celebrities have dined.
- ✅ Premium tea selection – Choose from a curated menu of loose-leaf teas, including an exclusive blend just for the Empress.
- ✅ Gourmet treats – Enjoy handcrafted pastries, scones, and sandwiches that look as good as they taste.
- ✅ The perfect special occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a treat-yourself moment, it’s a memorable indulgence.
- ✅ Insta-worthy elegance – The tea service, decor, and food presentation are as stunning as the experience itself.
The only downside? It’s not cheap. Expect to pay $109.00 per person for the premium package, making it more of a splurge than an everyday outing.
But if you’re looking for a classic, once-in-a-lifetime Victoria experience, it’s hard to beat.
What to Expect During Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel
- Elegant surroundings – Think plush seating, beautiful china, and a heritage atmosphere.
- A three-tiered tower of treats – Fresh-baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and beautifully crafted sweets.
- Afternoon tea ($109.00) – Includes Truffled Mushroom Quiche, Lemon & Earl Grey Madeleines, Smoked Salmon Freshly Baked Empress Raisin Scones, and much more
- Prince & Princess Tea ($60.00) – Includes Organic Peanut Butter & Jelly, Chocolate Cream Puff, Black Forest Ham & Cheese, Lemon Meringue Cupcake, Slow Roasted Turkey on Island Harvest Bread, and more.
- A huge selection of teas – Classic black teas, floral blends, and even caffeine-free herbal options.
- Impeccable service – The staff makes you feel like royalty from start to finish.
Best Thing About Empress Hotel Tea Service
If you’re only doing this once, go all in with the full Royal Champagne Tea. It’s the classic tea service plus a glass of bubbly, making it feel even more special.
Other great extras? Try the vegan tea menu if you have dietary restrictions – it’s just as luxurious.
For a perfect pairing, book a table near the window for harbour views while you sip.
Booking must be done in advance online to guarantee your spot: Empress Afternoon Tea online booking.
Where Is the Empress Hotel?
The Fairmont Empress is impossible to miss – it sits right on the Inner Harbour, across from the Parliament Buildings. It’s one of Victoria’s most famous landmarks, making it easy to find.
Reachability score: 10/10. Whether you’re staying in Victoria or visiting for the day, it’s right in the heart of downtown, walking distance from all major attractions.
How to Get to the Empress Hotel from Vancouver
- Vancouver to Victoria by car/ferry: The journey takes about 3.5 hours in total and costs around $100 (including BC Ferries and fuel).
- Vancouver to Victoria by bus: If you prefer not to drive, you can take the BC Ferries Connector bus from downtown Vancouver. It takes 4 hours and costs approximately $100.
- Seaplanes to Victoria: The fastest way to get there is by seaplane, which takes just 35 minutes. Expect to pay $250+ for the experience.
- Guided tours to Victoria: If you want a hassle-free option, guided tours from Vancouver last about 12 hours and cost between $150-$280, covering Victoria’s key highlights.
A bit too far? Check out some other ideas on my list of best day trips from Vancouver.
Easiest Way to Get to High Tea in Victoria BC
If you’re already in Victoria, just walk! The Empress is in the heart of downtown, overlooking the Inner Harbour – making it an easy stroll from most hotels and attractions.
For visitors from Vancouver, the ferry + bus combo is a smooth way to get here.
But if you want to arrive in style, the seaplane drops you off right by the harbour, just minutes away.
Here’s some quick ways to book the bus or seaplane:
Is Tea at the Empress Worth It? My Experience
I’ll be honest—I was skeptical at first. Spending $100+ on tea seemed excessive. But after my visit, I get why it’s so famous.
The setting alone is incredible. Sitting in a historic hotel, sipping tea from fine china, and looking out at the harbour felt like a step back in time.
The food? Impeccable. The scones were warm and flaky, the sandwiches had perfectly balanced flavours, and the desserts were little works of art.
My biggest tip? Go hungry! It might look dainty, but the portions add up. I made the mistake of eating breakfast before my reservation and regretted it.
Would I do it again? Maybe not every visit, but for a special occasion, absolutely. It’s a bucket-list Victoria experience that lives up to the hype.
My Tips for Visiting Tea at the Empress
- ✅ Book in advance – Reservations fill up fast, especially in summer. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
- ✅ Dress smart – There’s no strict dress code, but people tend to dress up a little. Think smart casual or a cute dress for photos.
- ✅ Try a new tea – The Empress Blend is the signature choice, but the rose-infused tea is another standout.
- ✅ Go for the window seats – If possible, request a table by the window for the best atmosphere.
- ✅ Don’t rush – Afternoon tea is meant to be enjoyed slowly. Expect to spend about 90 minutes here.
Afternoon Tea at the Empress FAQ
How much does Tea at the Empress cost?
The classic tea service starts at $109.00 per person, with champagne upgrades available. For a more basic package you can pay $60.00 for tea and a few sweets/sandwiches.
Is there a dress code for Afternoon Tea at the Empress?
There’s no official dress code, but smart casual is recommended. No flip-flops or sportswear.
Can I get a vegetarian or vegan option?
Yes! They offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free tea menus upon request.
How long does the high tea experience last?
Expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours enjoying your tea.
Do I need a reservation for Empress Afternoon TEa?
Yes! Walk-ins are rarely available, so book online in advance.
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