Kota Kinabalu Cheap Hotels

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

1. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (83 reviews)
"Great locations and tidy facilities"
Australia
Thomas
The price is HK$539
HK$601 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

2. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (254 reviews)
"Room was very clean and maintained well by the service staff. Breakfast was reasonable and staff was friendly"
Canada
Catherine
The price is HK$372
HK$495 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Nov - 22 Nov
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

3. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (741 reviews)
"Great location with close proximity to shopping & dining."
Singapore
MUN TAT
The price is HK$393
HK$444 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Nov - 13 Nov
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

4. Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (926 reviews)
"Great hotel for the price. Clean and staff were very welcoming. Plus, a great area with shops and restaurants."
United States
Christopher
The price is HK$557
HK$620 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Grandis Hotel

5. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (163 reviews)
"Very helpful and accommodating staff, lovely rooms and breakfast."
United States
Paula
The price is HK$477
HK$535 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

6. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
3.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (18 reviews)
"Great place to stay, staff very helpful and lots of amenities"
United Kingdom
Kevin
The price is HK$373
HK$422 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

7. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (380 reviews)
"The location was close to many attractions. The hotel gym was very well equipped."
Taiwan
Joshua
The price is HK$208
HK$244 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre

8. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (100 reviews)
"I had great time during my trip, easy check in and out, walking distance to most places"
Canada
Zhen
The price is HK$217
HK$254 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

9. The Jesselton Hotel

The Jesselton Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (470 reviews)
"Very convenient, friendly staff"
Malaysia
Henn Kiew
The price is HK$355
HK$403 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
The Jesselton Hotel

10. Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (955 reviews)
"Great location."
United Kingdom
Michelle
The price is HK$411
HK$485 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
Horizon Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Discover cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, is a paradise for budget-conscious travellers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Start your journey at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, where you can hop on a short boat ride to beautiful islands like Manukan and Sapi. Snorkelling here is relatively inexpensive, and you can marvel at the vibrant marine life without needing to splurge. Don’t miss the bustling markets of Kota Kinabalu, particularly the Filipino Market, where you can sample delicious local street food, such as fresh seafood and traditional kuih, at prices that won't dent your wallet. For those who enjoy nature, a visit to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre offers free entry and a chance to spot stunning wildlife, including various bird species. The Sabah State Museum is another must-visit, with a small entry fee that grants you access to fascinating exhibits about the region’s rich culture and history. Consider staying in the lively Kampung Air area, where you’ll find affordable hotels and guesthouses. This central spot allows for easy exploration of the city on foot, giving you the opportunity to engage with locals and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kota Kinabalu, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience expected by .

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu

For travellers seeking affordable accommodations in Kota Kinabalu, these five budget-friendly hotels offer great value without compromising comfort. Each hotel boasts essential amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay while keeping costs low.

The Klagan Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Klagan Hotel is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for comfort in the heart of Downtown Kota Kinabalu. With an excellent guest review rating of 8.4, it provides essential amenities such as free WiFi and toiletries, ensuring a straightforward stay. Guests can also enjoy free self-parking, making it convenient for those exploring the area by car.
  • Other amenities: In addition to budget-friendly amenities, The Klagan Hotel features daily housekeeping services to keep rooms tidy and welcoming. Guests can take in scenic views of the sea from certain rooms and enjoy a meal at the ocean-view restaurant. The hotel's nearby the boardwalk and various local attractions enhances the experience, providing easy access to the vibrant culture of Kota Kinabalu.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.4 km, Centre Point - 0.6 km, Anjung Samudera - 0.6 km

Oceania Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Oceania Hotel is a fantastic budget option for travellers looking for comfort and convenience, reflected in its solid review rating of 8.2. With complimentary WiFi, guests can stay connected during their visit. The hotel also offers cribs for families and features a terrace for relaxation, making it suitable for all types of travellers.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include early check-in and late check-out options, allowing for greater flexibility in travel plans. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace and access to airport transportation, ensuring seamless travel to and from the hotel. With a focus on guest comfort, the hotel also offers housekeeping services and a concierge to assist with any needs.
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 1.7 km, Centre Point - 2 km, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.6 km

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kota Kinabalu like for travellers on a budget?

Kota Kinabalu has cheap accommodation options and a variety of places to visit, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions such as Centre Point, KK Plaza and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.

What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?

Based on our traveller reviews, TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu and Signel Hostel.

How many cheap hotels will I find in Kota Kinabalu?

Choose a hotel that suits your wallet from Expedia's 18 budget hotels in Kota Kinabalu.

When is the best time for a budget trip to Kota Kinabalu?

Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Kota Kinabalu, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually May and June, with an average temperature of 28°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 27°C. The rainiest months in Kota Kinabalu are January, November, December and October, with each month seeing an average of 251 mm of rainfall.

What is there to see and do in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu attracts visitors with its major shopping area and island views, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then fill your itinerary with activities that are easy on the wallet. Check out the area's cultural spots like Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Centre Point.

How can I get to Kota Kinabalu and get around on a budget?

Scoping out the transportation options in Kota Kinabalu is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.), situated 4 mi (6.5 km) away. To venture out into the surrounding area, hop aboard a train at Tanjung Aru Station or Putatan Station. You can learn about your options for water transport at the local marina.

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