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

Budget Hotels in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (311 reviews)
"Shops nearby, good location."
United States
Sofía
The price is P1,845
P2,328 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 5 - Jul 6
Hotel Capital

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 P2,810
P3,185 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 9 - Jul 10
Mandarin Hotel

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 P1,923
P2,227 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 2 - Jul 3
CJ Residence

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 P4,640
P5,930 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 3 - Jul 4
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

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 traveler
The price is P1,570
P2,003 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 16 - Jul 17
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

The MAJULAN Hotel

The MAJULAN Hotel
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
The price is P4,535
P5,048 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 15 - Jul 16
The MAJULAN Hotel

My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu

My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu
3.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
The price is P1,314
P1,569 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu

Hotel O Rainfield Inn

Hotel O Rainfield Inn
2.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
The price is P1,297
P1,551 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 5 - Jul 6
Hotel O Rainfield Inn

Homi Breeze 和逸微风

Homi Breeze 和逸微风
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
7.8 out of 10, Good, (6 reviews)
"We arrived at nearly 10pm and didnt have the self check-in details so we had to send a text to receive the door codes. One of the rooms they said was ours already had people sleeping inside! Fortunately they gave us another room and we found them simple but comfortable. The shower was excellent!"
Singapore
Andrea
The price is P1,995
P3,056 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
Homi Breeze 和逸微风

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)
"Well located, clean and comfortable "
Australia
John
The price is P1,781
P2,074 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 6 - Jul 7
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
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, the vibrant capital of Sabah, offers a paradise of budget-friendly activities that will delight quality-seeking travelers. Begin your adventure at the stunning Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where you can take a short, affordable boat ride to explore beautiful islands like Manukan and Sapi, perfect for snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs. For a taste of local culture, visit the bustling Pasar Besar Kota Kinabalu, where you can wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce and local handicrafts, and savor delicious street food without breaking the bank. A trek up to Signal Hill provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding islands, and it’s free! Don’t miss the chance to explore the lush trails of the Kinabalu National Park, where you can enjoy both easy hikes and stunning flora and fauna at no cost. For accommodation, consider staying in the lively area of Gaya Street, where you’ll find a range of affordable hotels and boutique guesthouses. This area not only offers close nearby the bustling Sunday market but also creates an opportunity to experience the local community, with its friendly atmosphere and diverse dining options. With attentive service and comfortable lodging, Gaya Street is the perfect base for your Kota Kinabalu adventure.

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Travelers looking for affordable accommodations in Kota Kinabalu will find these top budget hotels to be excellent choices. Each offers essential amenities and great service without breaking the bank.

Signel Hostel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Signel Hostel is a top-rated budget option in Kota Kinabalu, achieving an impressive review rating of 10.0. This hostel provides essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, making it a great base for travelers looking to explore the city without overspending.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include shared refrigerator and kitchenette facilities, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. The hostel also offers terrace access for relaxation, along with nearby street parking for convenience, ensuring a comfortable and budget-friendly experience.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Central Market - 0.6 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.66 miles, Kompleks Asia City - 0.51 miles

Hotel 17

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Hotel 17 is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort and convenience in downtown Kota Kinabalu, a solid review rating of 8.0. Guests enjoy complimentary daily newspapers, free Wi-Fi, and toiletries, ensuring a pleasant stay without the extra costs.
  • Other amenities: In addition to budget amenities, Hotel 17 offers daily housekeeping for added convenience. The hotel features premium bedding and air conditioning to enhance guest comfort, while the concierge is always available to assist with local inquiries and recommendations.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.36 miles, Anjung Samudera - 0.75 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 0.62 miles

KK Times Square Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: KK Times Square Hotel is a fantastic option for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations with a rating of 8.0. The hotel provides a range of complimentary services, including 24-hour airport shuttle, free Wi-Fi, and daily newspapers, making it an excellent base for exploring Kota Kinabalu.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a room service option for convenient dining, as well as various transportation services such as area shuttle and airport transportation. Guests can also take advantage of self-parking and air conditioning for a comfortable stay.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Imago Shopping Mall - 0.82 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.99 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.28 miles

Seaview Capsule Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Seaview Capsule Hotel offers a unique budget experience for travelers in downtown Kota Kinabalu, with a review rating of 6.0. Guests appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, perfect for starting the day right without any added expenses.
  • Other amenities: The hotel boasts a prime location near the ocean and a shopping center, for added convenience for travelers. Additional amenities include self-parking, air conditioning, and a waterfront location, making it easy for travelers to enjoy the beauty of Kota Kinabalu.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 0.29 miles, Centre Point - 0.35 miles, Anjung Samudera - 0.4 miles

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What is Kota Kinabalu like for travelers on a budget?
Kota Kinabalu has a variety of cheap accommodations and places to visit, making it a great vacation choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions like Centre Point, KK Plaza, and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our traveler reviews, TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good choices for your budget-friendly stay include Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu and Signel Hostel.
How many low cost hotels will I be able to find in Kota Kinabalu?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet among 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, and keep 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 temp of 82°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 80°F. The rainiest months in Kota Kinabalu are January, November, December, and October, with each month seeing an average of 10 inches 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 make time for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. Check out the area's cultural spots like Mari Mari Cultural Village and Sabah State Museum, 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 can help keep you on budget. The closest airport is 4 mi (6.5 km) away from the center in Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI). To see more of the surrounding area, hop aboard a train at Tanjung Aru Station or Putatan Station. You can find out about your water travel options at the marina.