Budget Hotels in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
Nov 13 - Nov 14
Tomorrow
Nov 14 - Nov 15
This weekend
Nov 13 - Nov 15
Next weekend
Nov 20 - Nov 22

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

A modern building with a glass facade, a pool area with a curved edge, and a view of the sunset over the water.

1. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (84 reviews)
"nice,will stay again insyaAllah"
Malaysia
Mohd Hafizuddin
The price is P4,348
P4,851 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 14 - Nov 15
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, large chandeliers, and a seating area.

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, (256 reviews)
"Room was very clean and maintained well by the service staff. Breakfast was reasonable and staff was friendly"
Canada
Catherine
The price is P2,997
P3,993 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG
A person in a modern indoor pool with clear glass walls, a tiled column, and a glass table with a drink.

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 P3,168
P3,577 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 9 - Dec 10
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
A pool area with lounge chairs and a view of the sea at sunset.

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 P6,195
P6,846 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Grandis Hotel
A corridor with wooden doors and glass panels, leading to a room with a view of greenery.

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, (164 reviews)
"Very helpful and accommodating staff, lovely rooms and breakfast."
United States
Paula
The price is P3,851
P4,315 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 24 - Nov 25
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels
A spacious lobby with modern seating arrangements, a large abstract wall art piece, and a view of the outdoors through large windows.

6. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
3.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (19 reviews)
"Great place to stay, staff very helpful and lots of amenities"
United Kingdom
Kevin
The price is P3,010
P3,406 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 15 - Nov 16
The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay
A modern restaurant with a central island, dining tables, and chairs.

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 P1,826
P2,128 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 19 - Nov 20
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu City Centre
A hotel room with a bed, a window with a view of a cityscape, a wooden door, and a wall-mounted coat rack.

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 P1,751
P2,046 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 30 - Dec 1
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
A spacious lobby with a grand piano, a curved sofa, and a reception desk.

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 Jesselton Hotel
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sitting area with a bathtub, a large window with a view, and a wooden interior.

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 P3,373
P3,981 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 27 - Nov 28
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.
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Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

A hotel room with a bed, a window with a view of a cityscape, a wooden door, and a wall-mounted coat rack.
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
Downtown Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent

I so love this accomodation. Will definitely go back.
Philippines
Senibe Salve
Reviewed April 26, 2024
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

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

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 - Travel Meets Social 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 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 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.