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Top Kota Kinabalu Cheap Hotels

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (215)
"Overall facilities are clean and convenient to downtown. "
Hong Kong SAR China
Yuet Ying
The price is ₹4,027
₹5,393 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (974)
"Good hotel and friendly staff"
United Kingdom
Michael
The price is ₹7,659
₹8,491 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1001)
"Great hotel. "
United States
Zachary
The price is ₹11,818
₹12,982 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1001)
"Staff is very professional and hotel location is excellent."
Singapore
Kee Huat
The price is ₹6,912
₹7,684 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Dec - 11 Dec
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

4.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (181)
"Cleanliness, all staff interaction. Overall good experience "
Australia
Anwag
The price is ₹2,745
₹3,207 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Dec - 9 Dec
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Mandarin Hotel

2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (241)
"Staff was courteous and helpful. Room was super clean"
United States
Douglas
The price is ₹3,880
₹4,409 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Dec - 12 Dec
Mandarin Hotel

The Aru by Ayuhouz

4.0 star property
Tanjung Aru
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (30)
"Excellent stay"
Netherlands
Wybe
The Aru by Ayuhouz

Hotel Sadong 88

2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
6.6 out of 10, (28)
"Hotel have no lift just omagine careying my 20 kg luggage to the third floor."
Saudi Arabia
Ahmad Kamal
Hotel Sadong 88

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1002)
"Helpful staff"
Singapore
GRAHAM ANDREW
The price is ₹7,659
₹8,491 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jan - 7 Jan 2026
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Eminent Hotel

2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (258)
"nice staff and clean room"
Canada
Kevin
Eminent 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.

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

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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, Kompleks Asia City and KK Plaza.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveller reviews, TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include Signel Hostel and Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu.
How many cheap hotels will I find in Kota Kinabalu?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet from Expedia's 17 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.