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Downtown Kota Kinabalu Hotels, Kota Kinabalu

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Our top choices for Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels

1. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Great gym and pool amenities. Dining set menu in the restaurant was fantastic!"
Australia
Leila
The price is NZ$184
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu

2. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (210 reviews)
"Hotel staff and facilities were excellent. The breakfast buffet was phenomenal—wonderful, personalized service from Encik Fauzi and the rest of the team and a wide selection of food options, including many local favorites!"
United States
Paul
The price is NZ$251
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu

3. Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (999 reviews)
"Everything was perfect and we enjoyed our stay very much. A special mention deserves the staff ,everyone we encountered was genuinely very kind and happy to help and make our stay memorable. The breakfast was amazing. Also the pool was very nice."
United Kingdom
Ines
The price is NZ$256
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

4. Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location , rooms were spacious but very dated property needing updating . Carpets were stained . Buffet was very good with a good selection of local cuisine."
United Kingdom
Kingsley
The price is NZ$183
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

5. 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 NZ$142
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

6. Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (616 reviews)
"Perfectly placed property overlooking the sea. Staff were all very accommodating and friendly."
Malaysia
Murray
The price is NZ$197
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

7. Horizon Hotel

Horizon Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (954 reviews)
"Great location."
United Kingdom
Michelle
The price is NZ$158
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Horizon Hotel

8. Grandis Hotel

Grandis Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (914 reviews)
"I was upgraded to the best room due to unavailability of the room i booked which was great."
Malaysia
jasmindar kaur
The price is NZ$147
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Grandis Hotel

9. Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (74 reviews)
"Clean and spacious room with very friendly staff."
Singapore
John
The price is NZ$130
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

10. 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 NZ$54
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
CJ Residence

11. 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, (157 reviews)
"Good value, clean, convenient location."
United States
Raul Miguel
The price is NZ$152
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

12. Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (727 reviews)
"The pool is a nice addition after a long day of excursions."
Canada
Kian Yung
The price is NZ$119
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre

13. The Klagan Hotel

The Klagan Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 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 NZ$96
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
The Klagan Hotel

14. Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
4.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (602 reviews)
"I like this hotel very much. The room is spacious for the 2 of us. The beds, room and corridors are clean. The hotel is still being upgrading but we are not affected in anyway. The upgrading has improved the ambience. Buffet breakfast is also good. The location is so convenient for walking to Imago mall and the waterfront. But it’s really too hot for walking. So Grab is cooler!! Also the staff at front desk is so helpful and polite. Recommended 👍"
Singapore
BeeBee
The price is NZ$178
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

15. The Magellan Sutera Resort

The Magellan Sutera Resort
5.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Fun place to stay with a family. Lots of kid friendly areas and activities. "
United States
Bethany
The price is NZ$357
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
The Magellan Sutera Resort

16. Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo
2.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (18 reviews)
"room was clean and relatively well maintained. the staff were very helpful and polite"
Malaysia
Tony
The price is NZ$103
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
Signel Poshtel, the Rare Gem of North Borneo

17. Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B

Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B
4.5 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (37 reviews)
"The Regis was perfect for our 3 night stay in KK. Virtual front desk through WhatsApp was very responsive to all inquiries and the on site staff was extremely helpful. The location next to the Imago Mall was also quite convenient for anything we need plus ehailing to different spots in KK."
United States
Heidi
The price is NZ$127
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B

18. 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, (96 reviews)
"I had great time during my trip, easy check in and out, walking distance to most places"
Canada
Zhen
The price is NZ$56
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

19. 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 NZ$73
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Mandarin Hotel

20. 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 NZ$49
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Hotel Gaia 95
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.

Compare popular hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Deluxe Double Room (CJ 1)
CJ Residence
2.5 star property
9.6
Exceptional
52 reviews
View
City Double Room (AC 9)
AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
96 reviews
View
Grand Double Room
ACJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.8
Exceptional
6 reviews
View
Deluxe Room
Ritz Residence @ Imago Mall Loft B
4.5 star property
9.8
Exceptional
37 reviews
View
Premium bedding, Select Comfort beds, in-room safe, desk
AJ Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group
3.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
10 reviews
View

Our guide on where to stay in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Find the best Downtown Kota Kinabalu areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Tanjung Aru

Beaches and abundant dining options are well-reviewed features of Tanjung Aru. Make a stop by top sights like Tanjung Aru Perdana Park while you're exploring the area.

Kampung Air

Unique features of Kampung Air include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Kompleks Asia City or Sedco Square while you're exploring the area.

Karambunai

Karambunai is popular for its pristine beaches, and you might make a stop by Nexus Golf Resort Karambunai, a top place to visit in the area.

Kepayan

When in Kepayan, you can plan a visit to Sutera Harbour and Imago Shopping Mall, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Alamesra

While Alamesra may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like 1Borneo Hypermall and Likas Stadium.

Top Downtown Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu that travellers recommend?
For excellent hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu that come highly recommended by travellers, consider the Hilton Kota Kinabalu and the Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu.

The 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers 24-hour room service and a poolside restaurant, ensuring convenience at any time. Guests appreciate the quality of the breakfast and gym facilities, alongside a pleasant pool area. It is just 0.6 km from Warisan Square and 0.9 km from Imago Shopping Mall.

Another top recommendation is the 5-star Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, also rated 9.2. This hotel provides luxurious amenities such as bathrobes and many rooms offer stunning sea views. Guests frequently praise the amazing rooms. It is conveniently located 0.4 km from Warisan Square and 0.5 km from Gaya Street Sunday Market.

The 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, rated 8.8, is another popular choice. It features a club level lounge with refreshments, sea view rooms, and designer toiletries. Guests consistently highlight the excellent and helpful staff, comfortable rooms, and good food. Warisan Square is a mere 0.2 km away, and Gaya Street Sunday Market is 0.7 km away.

The 5-star Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, with an 8.6 rating, is known for its comfortable rooms and excellent facilities. It offers 24-hour room service and a restaurant with ocean views. The hotel is situated 0.4 km from Warisan Square and 0.6 km from Imago Shopping Mall.

Finally, the 5-star Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, rated 8.4, is much-loved for its friendly and professional staff, clean rooms with nice views, and great amenities. It also features a poolside bar and is located in a convenient shopping district, just 0.3 km from Gaya Street Sunday Market.
What are the best family hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
For family-friendly hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, and Hyatt Regency Kinabalu.

The 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, with an 8.8 rating, is highly regarded by families. It offers connecting rooms, complimentary cots, and highchairs, along with kids' meals at its restaurant. It is also very conveniently located, just 0.2 km from Warisan Square and 0.7 km from Gaya Street Sunday Market. Guests frequently mention the excellent and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and good food.

Another excellent option is the 5-star Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, which has an 8.6 rating. This hotel provides complimentary cots, a children's pool, child-friendly window designs, and kids' meals. It is situated 0.4 km from Warisan Square and 0.6 km from Imago Shopping Mall. Guests frequently praise the comfortable rooms and excellent facilities.

The 5-star Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, rated 8.4, is also a fine choice for families. It features connecting rooms, complimentary cots, a children's pool, and kids' meals, as well as on-site babysitting services. The hotel is well-located, just 0.3 km from Gaya Street Sunday Market and 0.4 km from Suria Sabah Shopping Mall. Guests often highlight the friendly and professional staff, clean rooms with nice views, and convenient location.
What are the best 5-star hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
For a selection of exceptional 5-star hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, Hilton Kota Kinabalu, and Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel.

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, with an 8.8 rating, is highly regarded by guests for its excellent and helpful staff, amazing customer service, and comfortable, clean rooms. This hotel offers club level rooms with lounge access and refreshments, designer toiletries, rainfall showerheads, and premium bedding. Many rooms also provide sea views or mountain views. It is conveniently located near Warisan Square (0.2 km) and Gaya Street Sunday Market (0.7 km).

The Hilton Kota Kinabalu, rated 9.2, is another outstanding choice. Guests frequently praise its good breakfast, well-equipped gym, and nice pool. The hotel provides designer toiletries, rainfall showerheads, and deep soaking bathtubs for a luxurious experience. Valet parking is available, and there is a poolside bar and a 24-hour restaurant. It is situated close to Warisan Square (0.6 km) and Imago Shopping Mall (0.9 km).

The Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel, with an 8.6 rating, is well-loved for its comfortable and great rooms, excellent facilities, and good car parking. It provides 24-hour room service, premium bedding, and bathrobes. The hotel features an ocean-view restaurant and is conveniently connected to an onsite shopping mall. It is located near Warisan Square (0.4 km) and Imago Shopping Mall (0.6 km).

The Pacific Sutera Hotel and The Magellan Sutera Resort, both 5-star properties with an 8.4 rating, are also excellent choices. Both hotels offer 24-hour room service, club level rooms with lounge access, bathrobes, and onsite golf courses and tennis facilities. They are uniquely positioned with private beach access and are located within Sutera Harbour, just 0.2 km and 0.4 km away respectively. The Pacific Sutera Hotel plus features a swim-up bar and a poolside bar.
What hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu offer free breakfast?
For hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu that offer free breakfast, consider the Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, The Magellan Sutera Resort, The Pacific Sutera Hotel, and Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu.

The 4-star Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG, with a superb 9.4 rating, provides free buffet breakfast and free Wi-Fi. It is conveniently located near Warisan Square, just 0.7 km away, and All Saint's Cathedral, only 0.2 km from the hotel. Guests frequently praise the great service.

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is a 5-star hotel with an 8.8 rating, offering complimentary continental breakfast in its club lounge. It is situated very close to the Local Fruits Market, just 0.0 km away, and Warisan Square, 0.2 km distant. Guests consistently highlight the excellent, helpful staff and the comfortable, clean rooms.

The 5-star Magellan Sutera Resort, rated 8.4, provides free buffet breakfast in its club lounge. This resort features a full-service spa with various treatments, including aromatherapy and hot stone massage. It is 0.9 km from Imago Shopping Mall.

Another excellent 5-star option is The Pacific Sutera Hotel, also rated 8.4, which offers free buffet breakfast in its club lounge. This resort boasts a private beach, an on-site golf course, and a poolside bar. It is located 1.1 km from Imago Shopping Mall.

Finally, the 4-star Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu, with an 8.0 rating, includes free buffet breakfast for guests with club level rooms. Many rooms at this hotel offer sea views, and it is 0.4 km from Warisan Square and 0.6 km from the Local Fruits Market.
What are the top boutique hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
For a top boutique hotel in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu.

This 5-star hotel, with an 8.8 rating, is known for its Art Deco design. Guests frequently comment on the excellent and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and excellent facilities. It offers a range of desirable features including rainfall showerheads, designer toiletries, and premium bedding. Many rooms provide either sea or mountain views. For dining, there is a poolside restaurant, and for those in an executive or club level room, a lounge with refreshments is available. The hotel is conveniently located just 0.4 km from KK Plaza and 1.1 km from Suria Sabah Shopping Mall.
What are the best budget hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
For budget-friendly accommodation in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, the Homy Seafront Hostel and the Seaview Capsule Hotel are highly recommended.

The Homy Seafront Hostel boasts an impressive 9.6 rating and provides guests with complimentary WiFi and a free English breakfast. It is exceptionally well-located, being just 0.1 km from Warisan Square and 0.1 km from the Local Fruits Market.

Another excellent option is the Seaview Capsule Hotel, with an 8.4 rating. Guests benefit from free WiFi, free toiletries, and a complimentary continental breakfast. This hotel is also very central, situated directly next to Warisan Square and only 0.2 km from the Local Fruits Market.
What are the most romantic hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu for couples?
For a romantic getaway in Downtown Kota Kinabalu, consider the Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, or Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu. Each of these 5-star hotels offers excellent amenities for couples.

The 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, with an impressive 9.2 rating, provides a luxurious experience with amenities such as designer toiletries, a rainfall showerhead, and deep soaking bathtubs, great for a relaxing time together. Guests also appreciate the nice pool and good breakfast. It is conveniently located near KK Plaza, just 0.9 km away, and Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, 1.5 km away.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, also boasting a 9.2 rating. This hotel is praised for its amazing rooms, some offering sea views and balconies, providing a lovely setting for couples. It is very close to KK Plaza, only 0.2 km away, and 0.8 km from Suria Sabah Shopping Mall.

The 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, rated 8.8, offers special features for couples, including couples dining options and couples treatment rooms. Many rooms provide beautiful sea or mountain views, and the hotel offers premium bedding and bathrobes for added comfort. Guests frequently highlight the excellent and helpful staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms. It is situated 0.4 km from KK Plaza and 1.1 km from Suria Sabah Shopping Mall.
What are the best hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade?
For hotels in Downtown Kota Kinabalu near Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, the Hilton Kota Kinabalu and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu are both excellent choices.

The 5-star Hilton Kota Kinabalu, with a 9.2 rating, provides a luxurious stay with amenities like a poolside bar and a 24-hour restaurant. Guests frequently mention the good breakfast and nice pool. It is located 0.6 km from Warisan Square and 1.0 km from Gaya Street Sunday Market.

Another superb option is the 5-star Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, rated 8.8. This hotel is family-friendly, offering kids' meals and highchairs, along with a pool. Guests consistently praise the excellent and helpful staff, the comfortable and clean rooms, and the excellent facilities. It is very close to Warisan Square, just 0.2 km away.
What hotels are near Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
For hotels near Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) that are suitable for families, consider The Pacific Sutera Hotel and The Magellan Sutera Resort.

The 5-star Pacific Sutera Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, is located just 4.6 km from the airport. It offers a children's playground, a dedicated children's pool, and supervised childcare services, making it very convenient for families.

Another excellent option is the 5-star Magellan Sutera Resort, also rated 8.4, which is 5.1 km from the airport. This resort provides a children's playground, a children's pool, and babysitting services, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests with young ones.
When is the best time to go to Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
The best time to visit Downtown Kota Kinabalu is during the dry season, which typically runs from March to October.

During these months, you'll experience less rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surrounding attractions. The weather is generally warm and humid year-round, but the dry season offers more consistent conditions for outdoor activities like island hopping, visiting Mount Kinabalu National Park, or enjoying the sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach. This period is particularly good for families looking to make the most of their holiday without disruptions from heavy rain.

Travellers looking for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds might consider the shoulder months of March, April, September, and October. While still within the dry season, these months often see slightly fewer tourists than the peak summer months, offering a good balance of pleasant weather and a more tranquil atmosphere.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline − this is often within 24 to 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our 'Fully refundable property' filter during your search to find the right Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotel for you.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Downtown Kota Kinabalu with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Downtown Kota Kinabalu hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Downtown Kota Kinabalu?
Hotel prices in Downtown Kota Kinabalu often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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