What is the difference between a 3-star hotel and a motel in Kota Kinabalu?

A motel is a good choice if you're gearing up to road-trip around Kota Kinabalu. These getaways are typically located near airports and major roads, offer on-site parking and come with basic amenities and services. Spend your stay at a 3-star hotel and you'll be more centrally located. With a wider range of rooms and welcome amenities such as a fitness centre, lobby and free WiFi, you can expect to pay extra for hotel lodgings.

Do any 3-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu have a pool?

Gear up for some poolside relaxation at Kks Marina Court Resorts Condominium . Or switch from touring attractions to lounging around by the water at Cosy 3BR Homestay . Both these 3-star stays with pools are located in Kota Kinabalu, where the summer months are June, July and August. Average temperatures range from 26ºC at night to 30ºC during the day in May, the warmest month of the year.

What 3-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu have an on-site restaurant?

After a day of touring the sights, unwind with a scrumptious meal at Hotel Sri Iskandar 's on-site restaurant. This 3-star Kota Kinabalu property also offers dry cleaning and laundry services and front desk services. Or dine without having to go anywhere at AC Residence . Unlimited data and individually decorated rooms are two other conveniences on offer here.

Do any 3-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu have WiFi?

Take advantage of the WiFi at Walk In Hotel and easily post all of your fantastic photos of Kota Kinabalu. Hotel Sri Iskandar is another 3-star hotel where you'll be able to get online while travelling. WiFi may be included in the price of the room or provided for an extra charge, so check before making your reservation.

What 3-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu have parking?

If you're planning to explore Kota Kinabalu by car, Hotel Sri Iskandar has a space to leave your ride. Seri Borneo Hotel is another 3-star getaway with parking. After you've checked off the famous sights in this city, why not fill up the gas tank and explore a bit farther? Some good day trip suggestions from central Kota Kinabalu are Mount Kinabalu National Park and Mount Kinabalu Park Entrance.

Do any 3-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu have rooms with a kitchenette?

Staying at a hotel with a kitchenette is an excellent idea if you're planning a self-catered break in Kota Kinabalu. Look forward to whipping up your own breakfasts and evening meals at Kks Marina Court Resorts Condominium . WiFi and a garden are other conveniences at this 3-star escape. Or save money on restaurant and takeout bills at Cosy Suite , which also features cooking facilities in addition to a swimming pool and pool sun loungers.

Affordable 3 Star Hotels in Kota Kinabalu for 2026

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu 3-star hotels

A hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a view of the sunset over the water, and a balcony with a chair.

1. Hotel 7 Suria

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Ai Ming

RM198 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

A hotel room with two beds, a small round table, and a large window offering a city view.

2. K Hotel

Kota Kinabalu

RM140 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a chair, a TV, and a minibar.

3. Hotel Capital

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Sofía

RM129 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Nov - 13 Nov

A hotel lobby with a reception desk, modern chairs, a glass railing, and a view of parked cars outside.

4. My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu

Leong Sze

RM88 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A modern interior with a spiral staircase, a round wooden table with a spherical lamp, and a potted plant.

5. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Paula

RM278 total

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

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

Kota Kinabalu

Kevin

RM277 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Nov - 13 Nov

A hotel room with a bed, a window with a view of a cityscape, a wooden door, and a wall-mounted coat rack.

7. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Zhen

RM189 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A modern lobby with a curved seating area, a reception desk, and a dining area.

8. Raia Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu

Ooi

RM290 total

includes taxes & fees

22 Nov - 23 Nov

A dining area with tables and chairs, large windows with a view of the countryside, and a ceiling with recessed lighting.

9. Crystal Hill R

Ranau

Imran

RM120 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Nov - 19 Nov

A reception desk at Hotel de Leeton with a sign indicating the reception area.

10. Hotel DeLeeton

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Anonymous traveller

RM114 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Nov - 15 Nov

A hotel entrance with a reception desk, framed certificates on the wall, and potted plants.

11. D Arc Hotel

Kota Kinabalu

Amir

RM121 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, several receptionists, and a large potted plant.

12. The Klagan Hotel

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

John

RM201 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Nov - 19 Nov

A wooden table and chairs inside a room with a view of a mountain range.

13. Nabalu Kundasang Lodge

Ranau

Marco

RM100 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

A hotel room with two beds, a large window with curtains, and two framed pictures on the wall.

14. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

Anonymous traveller

RM170 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

15. Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

MASAKO

RM199 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A terrace with wicker furniture, a table, and chairs, overlooking a body of water and hills.

16. Gaya Centre Hotel

Downtown Kota Kinabalu

King Wong

RM210 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, a seating area with sofas and chairs, and a large staircase.

17. The Klagan Regency

Kota Kinabalu

Olive

RM270 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A multi-story hotel with a spacious outdoor area, multiple balconies, and a well-lit interior.

18. Kokol Haven Resort

Kota Kinabalu

Catherine

RM313 total

includes taxes & fees

10 Dec - 11 Dec

A poolside area with a clear view of the sunset over the water, a lounge area with blue cushions, and a person serving a drink.

19. C'haya Hotel

Tanjung Aru

Anonymous traveller

A rooftop terrace with potted plants and a view of the city skyline.

20. Oceania Hotel

Kota Kinabalu

SYED NASIRIN

RM242 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

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Explore similar 4-star hotels

Many 4-star hotels have the same amenities as 3-star hotels. See all 4-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu.

The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu

No. 1 Jalan Tangki Kota Kinabalu Sabah

RM202

RM248 total

15 Nov - 16 Nov

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (335 reviews)

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Pool Spa Hot tub Breakfast included Waterpark

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.

Kota Kinabalu and related destinations

Climb Signal Hill at dawn for panoramic views of the city skyline and islands dotting the South China Sea. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the night market at the waterfront, while adventure seekers can take day trips to Mount Kinabalu in the nearby national park.

See all hotels in Kota Kinabalu

A mountain with a cloud formation over it.

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

K Hotel

8/10 Good

"Clean room, alot of restaurant and cafes are nearby."

Hotel 7 Suria

8/10 Good

"Located in the Suria mall"

Less expensive	More expensive	This month	Next month
May	February	RM155	RM155

Month	Price
January	RM164
February	RM172
March	RM144
April	RM172
May	RM137
June	RM140
July	RM143
August	RM151
September	RM148
October	RM157
November	RM155
December	RM155

Price trend information excludes taxes and fees and is based on base rates for a nightly stay for 2 adults found in the last 7 days on our site and averaged for commonly viewed properties with 3 stars in Kota Kinabalu.

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Find Your Ideal 3 Star Hotel in Kota Kinabalu

There's a reason the top 3-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia are so incredibly popular: They combine comforting amenities and just-for-you service with some of the best rates and discounts the area has to offer. When you book a stay at a three star hotel in Kota Kinabalu, you'll get affordable rates at these mid-range properties. Check through our listings and you'll find some hotels may even give you access to perfect little perks like on-site restaurants and cocktail bars, well-appointed fitness centres, and spacious rooms.

Search for a cheap deal on a 3 star hotel in Kota Kinabalu for the most elegant experience, or grab a low rate on one of the cheap 3 star hotels in Kota Kinabalu near the local attractions, if you want something a touch more unassuming. Whatever your travelling style, make sure to use the search tools at Expedia to track down prices, read more about amenities, and score a few local discounts.

From business trips to family getaways, the Kota Kinabalu 3 star hotels offer a fantastic economical yet comfortable stay for any type of holiday.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best 3-star hotels in Kota Kinabalu?

Our guests highly recommend Seri Borneo Hotel. It features WiFi and front desk services, and is around 0.32 kilometers north of the centre of Kota Kinabalu. AC Residence is another well-liked 3-star hotel. Located approximately 0.32 kilometers southwest of the downtown area, it offers individually decorated rooms and unlimited data.

How much does it cost to stay in a 3-star hotel in Kota Kinabalu?

Take advantage of Expedia's search filters to score a reasonably priced 3-star hotel for your upcoming Kota Kinabalu escape. Simply set your maximum rate with our convenient pricing tool. You can also select the amenities you want, favourite area and plenty more.

Search for the lowest price per night right now from RM166

What is the difference between a 4-star and 3-star hotel in Kota Kinabalu?

Check in to a 3-star hotel and you can look forward to well-kept and comfortable rooms and conveniences such as complimentary WiFi, fitness equipment and coffee and tea facilities. These lodgings may also include an on-site bar and restaurant. Upgrade your Kota Kinabalu holiday by choosing a 4-star hotel. With things like a wellness area, 24-hour room service and luxury bathroom products, you'll experience an enhanced level of comfort and relaxation.

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Kota Kinabalu Holiday Rentals

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Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu 3-star hotels

1. Hotel 7 Suria

2. K Hotel

3. Hotel Capital

4. My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu

5. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

6. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

7. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

8. Raia Hotel Kota Kinabalu

9. Crystal Hill R

10. Hotel DeLeeton

11. D Arc Hotel

12. The Klagan Hotel

13. Nabalu Kundasang Lodge

14. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

15. Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu

16. Gaya Centre Hotel

17. The Klagan Regency

18. Kokol Haven Resort

19. C'haya Hotel

20. Oceania Hotel

Explore similar 4-star hotels

The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Grand InHotel Kota Kinabalu

Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre by IHG

Kota Kinabalu and related destinations

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

K Hotel

Hotel 7 Suria

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Find Your Ideal 3 Star Hotel in Kota Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

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Three Star Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

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Check availability on Kota Kinabalu 3 Star Hotels

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu 3-star hotels

1. Hotel 7 Suria

2. K Hotel

3. Hotel Capital

4. My Inn Hotel Inanam Kota Kinabalu

5. The LUMA Hotel - A Member of Design Hotels

6. The SIGAR Hotel at Sutera Bay

7. AC Residence - A Member of The Luxury Stay Group

8. Raia Hotel Kota Kinabalu

9. Crystal Hill R

10. Hotel DeLeeton

11. D Arc Hotel

12. The Klagan Hotel

13. Nabalu Kundasang Lodge

14. Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu

15. Sky Hotel Kota Kinabalu

16. Gaya Centre Hotel

17. The Klagan Regency

18. Kokol Haven Resort

19. C'haya Hotel

20. Oceania Hotel

Explore similar 4-star hotels

The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu and related destinations

Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

K Hotel

Hotel 7 Suria

Find out more about Kota Kinabalu

Find Your Ideal 3 Star Hotel in Kota Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia