Four

Four-peat: Victoria named world’s best small city once again

Published 10:10 am Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Move over, Venice and Florence. For the fourth year running, travellers have declared Victoria the undisputed king of small cities.

The waterfront capital took first place in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler, beating out renowned global hotspots including Porto, Dubrovnik, Amalfi and San Sebastián.

The award recognizes cities with populations under 350,000.

Nearly 800,000 readers across the United States took part in the annual survey to rate their travel experiences around the world.

Victoria was the lone city from Canada to land in the Top-10.

“To be recognized by travellers from around the world for a fourth consecutive year is both humbling and inspiring,” said Paul Nursey, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria.

“This honour speaks to the strength of Greater Victoria’s global reputation, and the collective efforts of our tourism industry, businesses, community partners, and residents who help make this destination so memorable.”

Nursey said the regional marketing strategy has focused heavily on media and public relations investments in key markets.

“It is gratifying to see this approach translating into continued recognition from travellers themselves,” he said.

The region’s hospitality sector also picked up major honours.

Three Greater Victoria hotels were ranked among the top 10 in Western Canada.

The Magnolia Hotel & Spa placed second, the Fairmont Empress was third and the Oak Bay Beach Hotel ranked seventh.

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa was also ranked 15th among the world’s top resorts.

“We’re proud to be recognized among the top three hotels in Western Canada,” said Dan McGowan, general manager of the Fairmont Empress.

“Fairmont Empress and the City of Victoria are inseparable parts of the guest experience. The city’s recognition as the world’s best small city speaks to the remarkable destination around us, and our team is proud to help bring that experience to life.”

The 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards are published on the Condé Nast Traveler website and showcased in its November issue.