A calm sea with a boat anchored near a small island.

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Check availability on Kota Kinabalu Cheap Hotels

Tonight
7 Aug - 8 Aug
Tomorrow
8 Aug - 9 Aug
This weekend
7 Aug - 9 Aug
Next weekend
14 Aug - 16 Aug

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

1. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Leila
₹8,597
₹9,518 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

2. Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Singapore
KIAN HEONG
₹5,530
₹7,216 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

3. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Ines
₹8,202
₹9,091 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

4. Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Claire
₹3,334
₹3,601 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Aug - 21 Aug
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

5. Qlio Hotel

Qlio Hotel
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Malaysia
Myona
₹2,628
₹3,071 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
Qlio Hotel

6. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Denmark
Anonymous traveller
₹2,609
₹3,351 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

7. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
United Kingdom
Kingsley
₹9,249
₹10,222 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

8. Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Australia
Brittany
₹1,957
₹2,572 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Hotel Gaia 95

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

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Canada
Zhen
₹2,684
₹3,131 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

10. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
Canada
Kian Yung
₹5,739
₹6,431 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
View all properties

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

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel location is fantastic. We had a sea facing room and had a wonderful view of the ocean and mountains in the background, as well as fishing boats. The gym is also well equipped - multiple stationary bikes, treadmills, exercise machines. The only down side is that there is a strong odor of cigarettes in there all the time. May be due to bad air circulation in that room. There is also a nice outdoor pool. The breakfast buffet was very good, with lots of local and western choices. Hotel staff are wonderful, very helpful, polite and customer focused."
Merkna 2-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel for the price. Clean and staff were very welcoming. Plus, a great area with shops and restaurants."
Christopher 5-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Grandis Hotel
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

8/10 Good
"Great location , rooms were spacious but very dated property needing updating . Carpets were stained . Buffet was very good with a good selection of local cuisine."
Kingsley 2-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Gym was in a separate building which was a little bit of a pain and yoga sessions were further still which wasn’t great"
Jyoti 3-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
The Magellan Sutera Resort
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

10/10 Excellent
"I would say this resort has plenty of activities and amenities which is very convenient. Peaceful resort with a beautiful beach right in front of me. I wish the food selection and taste could be improved."
Madihah 2-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai

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, Kota Kinabalu Central Market and Gaya Street Sunday Market.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveller reviews, Signel Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu and TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - 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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