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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Tomorrow
10 Nov - 11 Nov
This weekend
13 Nov - 15 Nov
Next weekend
20 Nov - 22 Nov

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu cheap hotels

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a desk with a chair, and a window with a view of buildings.

1. CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (59 reviews)
"The communication was prompt, accurate, and polite full. Staff assisted by carrying out luggage upstairs, and is happy and polite. The massage chair was an amazing addition to our stay. In the heart of all shops. Will definitely book with them again."
Australia
Kunthea
The price is Rp497.227
Rp581.572 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
A hotel room with a bed, a window with a view of a cityscape, a wooden door, and a wall-mounted coat rack.

2. 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 Rp502.500
Rp587.267 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a chair, a TV, and a minibar.

3. Hotel Capital

Hotel Capital
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (319 reviews)
"Shops nearby, good location."
United States
Sofía
The price is Rp439.122
Rp562.731 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Hotel Capital
A hotel room with a neatly made bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a view of the city through the window.

4. A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
"Hotel very beautiful, clean, good staff"
Malaysia
Imran
The price is Rp550.813
Rp639.445 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
A Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
A hotel room with two beds, a large window with curtains, and two framed pictures on the wall.

5. 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 Rp486.101
Rp618.166 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
A modern hotel with a clear view of the surrounding cityscape and a river.

6. Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu

Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu
2.0 star property
Kota Kinabalu
7.4 out of 10, Good, (9 reviews)
"A"
United States
Fui Fuui
The price is Rp326.270
Rp396.939 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Greenage MingSuite Kota Kinabalu
A modern living room with a large window, a sofa, a coffee table, and a dining area.

7. Seaview Capsule Hotel

Seaview Capsule Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (30 reviews)
"Good value and location, very weak hot water heater, breakfast is very simple. "
United States
Benjamin
The price is Rp285.142
Rp381.034 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Seaview Capsule Hotel
A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a chair, a TV, and a lamp.

8. 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 Rp370.132
Rp481.327 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Hotel Gaia 95
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand, a mirror, and a window with a view of the interior.

9. AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (10 reviews)
"The facilities we had in the room were top notch. Location is great as well but only downside the view from the room isn’t that great. "
United Kingdom
Ganesh
The price is Rp590.724
Rp682.549 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
A hotel room with a large window, a bed, a desk with a lamp, and a chair.

10. Palette Kota Kinabalu Near by Imago Shopping Mall Formerly Zara's Boutique Hotel

Palette Kota Kinabalu Near by Imago Shopping Mall Formerly Zara's Boutique Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
7.0 out of 10, Good, (70 reviews)
"Lovely hotel for the rate you paid."
Malaysia
SYED NASIRIN BIN SYED ZAINOL ABIDIN
The price is Rp291.760
Rp359.668 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Palette Kota Kinabalu Near by Imago Shopping Mall Formerly Zara's Boutique 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.
View all properties

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a desk with a chair, and a window with a view of buildings.
CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

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

10/10 Excellent

Fantastic stay. Incredible value, very helpful and responsive host who let me leave my bags after I’d checked out, and an elegant bedroom & bathroom. Even a massage chair! Would totally recommend.
United Kingdom
Gabriel
Reviewed August 7, 2026
CJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

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 .

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, KK Plaza and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.

What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Kota Kinabalu?

Based on our traveller reviews, TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good options for your budget-friendly stay include Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu and Signel 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.