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Find Cheap Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Tuaran
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1003)
"The hotel staffs are very friendly and supportive"
United States
MIKA
The price is ¥23,194
¥25,437 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 18 - Jan 19, 2026
Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (976)
"Very good."
Australia
Yifeng
The price is ¥12,486
¥13,872 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 24 - Jan 25, 2026
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Eminent Hotel

Eminent Hotel
2.5 star property
Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (259)
"nice staff and clean room"
Canada
Kevin
Eminent Hotel

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, (218)
"Overall facilities are clean and convenient to downtown. "
Hong Kong SAR China
Yuet Ying
The price is ¥8,041
¥10,629 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 4 - Jan 5, 2026
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1001)
"Helpful staff"
Singapore
GRAHAM ANDREW
The price is ¥14,303
¥15,834 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 24 - Jan 25, 2026
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

The Aru by Ayuhouz

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

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1002)
"Staff were very friendly and helpful. However, this is an older hotel and for a similar price you could stay at some of the newer hotels in KK."
Australia
Nicholas
The price is ¥13,923
¥15,424 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 7 - Jan 8, 2026
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (196)
"Great location and certainly easy to access to the food."
Thailand
Thosaphol
The price is ¥17,743
¥19,549 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 13 - Jan 14, 2026
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

CJ Residence

CJ Residence
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (46)
"Very satisfied stay"
United States
Jiwoo
The price is ¥4,551
¥5,334 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 30 - Dec 31
CJ Residence

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (601)
"Hotel staff unprofessional "
United Kingdom
Jiarui
The price is ¥15,849
¥17,503 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 23 - Jan 24, 2026
Kota Kinabalu Marriott 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, 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

Homesuite’ Home @ Riverson SOHO

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Homesuite’ Home @ Riverson SOHO is an excellent choice for budget travelers seeking a bit more space and facilities, with a review rating of 8.0. The hotel offers essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour airport shuttle, ensuring a straightforward stay for guests.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the basics, this hotel features an outdoor pool and spa services, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring. Guests can enjoy self-parking, access to a fully equipped kitchen, and a furnished balcony with sea views, enhancing the overall experience.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Kota Kinabalu
  • Nearby attractions: Imago Shopping Mall - 0.76 miles, Kota Kinabalu Esplanade - 1.16 miles, Oceanus Waterfront Mall - 1.25 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, Signel Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good choices for your budget-friendly stay include TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Hostel and Grapevine Garden.
How many low cost hotels will I be able to find in Kota Kinabalu?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet among 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, 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.

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