Victoria Shines As World Best Small City

  • Victoria, B.C. secures the title of Best Small City in the World for the fourth consecutive year in Condé Nast Traveler awards
  • The vibrant capital outperformed major international destinations including Florence, Venice, and Puerto Vallarta
  • Four Greater Victoria properties, including the Magnolia Hotel and Spa and Fairmont Empress, ranked among top global hotels and resorts
  • Strategic international public relations and strong community partnerships continue to drive record tourism success and traveler satisfaction

Victoria, British Columbia, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being crowned the Best Small City in the World for the fourth consecutive year in Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Securing the top position among destinations with a population under 350,000, the picturesque waterfront capital outperformed renowned global tourism hotspots such as Florence, Venice, San Sebastian, and Puerto Vallarta. Destination Greater Victoria attributes this sustained global acclaim to collaborative community efforts, targeted international marketing investments, and the exceptional warmth and hospitality provided by local businesses and residents.

In addition to the city’s top ranking, several local accommodations received high praise in the global hotel and resort categories, further highlighting the region’s diverse and world-class hospitality offerings. Properties such as The Magnolia Hotel and Spa, the iconic Fairmont Empress, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, and the Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa were all recognized among the finest places to stay in Western Canada and across the globe. This continued recognition reinforces Greater Victoria’s reputation as a premier destination that successfully blends timeless charm, sustainable urban living, and unforgettable travel experiences for visitors year after year.