3D2N Budget Romantic Weekend Getaway in Kota Kinabalu

Looking for a budget-friendly and romantic weekend getaway in Kota Kinabalu? Check out our 3D2N itinerary packed with things to do and affordable hotels to stay in.
Traveloka Accomodation
06 Sep 2023 - 7 min read

Looking for budget weekend getaways for couples? Kota Kinabalu is the answer. It’s where you can enjoy a romantic and adventurous escape without breaking the bank. With a range of hotels in Kota Kinabalu that cater to every budget, you can find the perfect accommodation for your needs and preferences.

Once you're settled in, there are plenty of things to do in Kota Kinabalu that are perfect for couples. From strolling along the beautiful beaches to exploring the vibrant night markets and cultural villages, you can create unforgettable memories with your loved one.

So why wait? Book your trip to Kota Kinabalu today and experience the best that this beautiful city has to offer!

3D2N Itinerary in Kota Kinabalu

Day 1

Morning - Arrival in Kota Kinabalu

Check-in at Hotel Deleeton Kota Kinabalu

It’s basically the first thing to do in Kota Kinabalu. Check into Hotel Deleeton Kota Kinabalu located at No. 2, Jalan Pinang, Kampung Air, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

With rooms starting from MYR 80 per night, this hotel is renowned for its convenient location in the heart of Kota Kinabalu and its clean and comfortable rooms. Once you're settled in, head out in the afternoon to explore the vibrant Kota Kinabalu City.

Day - Visit the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

You don't want to miss a visit to the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque located at Jalan Pasir, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

This beautiful mosque is a must-visit destination with free admission and is open from 8 am to 5 pm daily. The mosque boasts stunning architecture and offers breathtaking views of the sea that are perfect for taking photos.

After exploring the mosque, head to Tanjung Aru Beach to witness the stunning sunset views. This part of popular budget weekend getaways for couples located at Jalan Tanjung Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, offers free admission and a wide range of food stalls to indulge in.

Afternoon - Take a short taxi ride to Tanjung Aru Beach

Tired already? Take a short taxi ride to Tanjung Aru Beach (Address: Jalan Tanjung Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah) and witness the stunning sunset views that the beach is famous for. Enjoy a stroll along the beach and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Indulge in various food stalls available on the beach and try local delicacies. Take a deep breath and relax as you take in the calmness of the sea and the gentle sound of waves crashing on the shore.

And now it’s time to go back to one of the best hotels in Kota Kinabalu you’ve already checked in.

Day 2

Morning - Island Hopping at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

New day, the new adventure of budget weekend getaways for couples awaits! Make sure to book a day tour with Sabah Island Explorer (Address: Lot G1, Ground Floor, Wisma Sabah, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah) for an unforgettable island-hopping experience.

With prices starting from MYR 150 per person, you can explore crystal clear waters, beautiful coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Get ready to snorkel, dive, and soak up the sun in one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!

Afternoon - Lunch at Welcome Seafood Restaurant

As the day draws on, satisfy your cravings with a sumptuous seafood lunch at Welcome Seafood Restaurant (Address: Lot G33, Ground Floor, Plaza Shell, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah).

This popular restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh and delicious seafood dishes at affordable prices, starting from MYR 20 per dish. Located in the city's heart, it is accessible and open from 10 am to 10 pm daily. Its casual atmosphere and excellent service make it the perfect spot to refuel and relax after a day of adventure.

Evening - Night Market at Gaya Street

Spend the night exploring the vibrant Gaya Street Night Market (Address: Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah) and immerse yourself in the local culture.

This weekly event takes place every Sunday from 6 am to 1 pm and is known for its array of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. The bustling market offers an authentic experience where you can interact with the locals and indulge in mouth-watering delicacies, including grilled seafood, fried chicken wings, and traditional desserts.

Don't forget to bargain for the best price and pick up unique souvenirs to bring home with you. And get ready for the last things to do in Kota Kinabalu on your final day tomorrow!

Day 3

Morning - Breakfast at Yee Fung Laksa

On the final day of your Kota Kinabalu trip, fuel up for the day with a bowl of laksa at Yee Fung Laksa (Address: 127, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah). With prices starting from MYR 7 per bowl, this eatery is a must-visit for its authentic and delicious laksa.

The restaurant opens daily at 6:30 am and operates until 2 pm, so be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds. After breakfast, get ready to experience the rich culture of Sabah by visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village.

Afternoon - Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village

And now it's time to immerse yourself in the traditional Sabahan culture and lifestyle by booking a cultural tour at Mari Mari Cultural Village (Address: Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah).

The tour price starts from MYR 190 per person and the village is open for tours from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Mari Mari Cultural Village is famous for providing visitors with an authentic experience of Sabahan culture through interactive activities, traditional cuisine, and cultural performances.

Evening - Departure

Departure time has come, and it's time to bid farewell to Kota Kinabalu, until next time.

Recommended Best Hotels in Kota Kinabalu

Here are some best hotels in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, for budget weekend getaways for couples. Each of these hotels has something unique to offer, from stunning views to excellent amenities, making them a great choice for your stay in the city.

1. Hotel Deleeton Kota Kinabalu

Nestled in the lively heart of Kota Kinabalu, you'll find the Hotel Deleeton Kota Kinabalu. This hidden gem, located at No. 2, Jalan Pinang, Kampung Air, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, offers clean and comfortable lodgings at a starting price of just MYR 80 per night.

Despite its affordability, the hotel boasts top-notch amenities and prime locations, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's many attractions. Book your stay today and discover why so many travelers rave about the Hotel Deleeton's friendly service, attention to detail, and comfortable rooms.

2. Golden Hill Hotel

The second hotel in Kota Kinabalu to pick for budget weekend getaways for couples is the Golden Hill Hotel in Kota Kinabalu. This is a one-star hotel recommendation you can find around the Pekan Tanjung Auri Jalan Pinang, Kota Kinabalu City Centre. This hotel’s location is strategic, around the area of Tanjung Aru, nearby the Perpustakaan Tanjung Aru.

This hotel is also near to the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, only 1.90 km away. Some of the attractions you can find nearby include Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, Tanjung Aru Beach, and Sabah State Museum.

Things to Do Recommendations:

1. Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, located at Jalan Pasir, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to the city. This stunning mosque is open to visitors free of charge, making it accessible to everyone.

Visitors can admire the mosque's breathtaking architecture and take in the stunning views of the sea from its waterfront location. With opening hours from 8 am to 5 pm daily, there's plenty of time to explore this beautiful landmark and soak in its tranquil atmosphere.

2. Tanjung Aru Beach

Beach lovers rejoice - Tanjung Aru Beach in Kota Kinabalu is your perfect destination. With its stunning location at Jalan Tanjung Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, this beach offers free admission and a wide range of food stalls serving up delicious local cuisine.

But the real draw of Tanjung Aru Beach is its spectacular sunset views, which make for an unforgettable experience. So whether you're looking to unwind with a book on the sand or snap some Instagram-worthy photos of the sunset, Tanjung Aru Beach is the place to be.

3. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Why settle for an ordinary beach experience when you can explore the wonders of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park? Located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, this stunning marine park is famous for its crystal clear waters, beautiful coral reefs, and abundant marine life.

Day tours start from just MYR 150 per person, making it an affordable and unforgettable experience for visitors of all budgets. With opening hours from 8 am to 5 pm daily, there's plenty of time to explore the park's five idyllic islands and soak in the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.

4. Gaya Street Night Market

Satisfy your love for style and culture by visiting the Gaya Street Night Market in Kota Kinabalu. "Gaya" means style, and this famous market on Jalan Gaya in Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah certainly lives up to its name.

Free admission and opening hours every Sunday from 6 am to 1 pm is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs or handicrafts. And when you need a break from shopping, be sure to try some of the delicious street food on offer - it's a feast for all the senses!

5. Mari Mari Cultural Village

And finally, for a truly immersive experience of traditional Sabahan culture and lifestyle, take advantage of the opportunity to visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village in Inanam, Kota Kinabalu.

Cultural tours start from just MYR 190 per person, and with tours available from 10 am to 5 pm daily, it's a great way to spend a day learning about the fascinating history and customs of the local people. Definitely, it’s one of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu.

Explore traditional houses, learn about ancient hunting techniques, sample local delicacies, and participate in hands-on activities like fire-starting and blow-pipe shooting. It's an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Sabah.

So, how can you make the most of your trip to Kota Kinabalu? The answer is simple - use Traveloka!

Traveloka is your one-stop shop for all your travel needs, offering great deals on flights, accomodations, and activities. With their easy-to-use platform, you can browse and book the best options for your budget and preferences.

Plus, with their price alert feature, you can be notified of any price drops or deals, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Kota Kinabalu with Traveloka and enjoy the benefits of stress-free and affordable travel planning!

Explore further detailed recommendations aboutKinabalu and its surroundings:

Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe

Traveloka Sdn Bhd (Registration No. 201501003122), Level 14 Tower 2, Menara Kembar Bank Rakyat, 33 Jalan Rakyat Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Copyright © 2025 Traveloka. All rights reserved