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

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"I enjoyed my stay. The staff were friendly and the room was clean and comfortable.The breakfast served was very good. The location was very good too."
Australia
John
The price is S$70
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
The Klagan Hotel

Mandarin Hotel

Mandarin Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (249 reviews)
"Great location. Able to walk to many locations and night food market next door."
Canada
Tamara
The price is S$55
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Mandarin Hotel

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
3.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Comfortable stay at Dreamtel. Breakfast was good, staff was service-minded, and room was nice. The hotel has a central location. Good value for money."
Denmark
Anonymous traveller
The price is S$40
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Hotel Gaia 95

Hotel Gaia 95
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (196 reviews)
"Helpful staff that let me check in early :)"
Australia
Brittany
The price is S$34
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Hotel Gaia 95

Promenade Service Apartments

Promenade Service Apartments
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
6.6 out of 10, (460 reviews)
"The room itself was large, however it wasnt very clean, with rubbish down the sides of the couch. The apartment was old. The area between reception and the room was dirty. The laundry area was spotless. The staff were helpful and polite."
Australia
Debbie
The price is S$31
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Promenade Service Apartments

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (199 reviews)
"Friendly and helpful stay, tasty breakfast, nice room and great pool to use. The little shop onsite was good too. All food was amazing. "
United Kingdom
Claire
The price is S$46
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Pan Borneo Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (312 reviews)
"Shops nearby, good location."
United States
Sofía
The price is S$42
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Hotel Capital

CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (52 reviews)
"Clean and comfortable lodging, I could recommend. Good location- easy walk to fish market. Can honestly say for the price was a good deal. "
Australia
Scott
The price is S$38
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
CJ Residence

Hotel Eden54

Hotel Eden54
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (323 reviews)
"A strategic place where you can easily access to jetty Jesselton and restaurants "
Australia
Anonymous traveller
The price is S$44
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
Hotel Eden54

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, (233 reviews)
"Hotel location is good"
Singapore
KIAN HEONG
The price is S$130
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
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

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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