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Step into Merdeka Square, where history lingers in every brick. The old red-walled monument stands tall, honoring Sabah’s independence, while sunlight filters through palm trees casting gentle shadows on the grass. Sit a moment, listen to the breeze, and feel the quiet pulse of the past still alive today.
This hotel is perfect for both family vacations and business trips! Located in the city center, it's just a 13-minute drive to the airport and train station. With kids' pool and children's meals, your little ones will have a blast, while adults can unwind at the fitness center or swimming pool. Enjoy 24-hour front desk service and free WiFi to stay connected. Rooms are equipped with in-room safes and satellite TV for a comfortable stay. Whether you're traveling for leisure or work, this place has everything you need!
Everything you need to know about Merdeka Square
InterContinental Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Merdeka Square, offering panoramic views of the monument and surrounding greenery. Its rooftop pool and floor-to-ceiling windows provide an immersive urban experience. Nearby, Kinabalu Park Resort offers a tranquil retreat with nature-focused amenities. Both properties are easily accessible via taxi (15 minutes from airport) or local bus routes, making them ideal for exploring the city center and cultural landmarks.
Hotels near Merdeka Square offer exceptional access to key sites: walking or short electric rides reach the Kota Kinabalu Tower, Maritime Museum, and Market Street. The square itself hosts daily cultural performances and night markets, perfect for evening strolls. For trips to Mount Kinabalu or Kinabalu National Park, many hotels arrange private transfers. Additionally, free city buses stop directly at the square, connecting guests to the airport and major shopping centers, ensuring seamless exploration.
Near Merdeka Square, visitors can enjoy weekend traditional dance performances showcasing Sabahan indigenous culture. The nearby Japanese-style teahouse serves authentic coconut coffee and local pastries, a favorite spot for photos. Evening guests can join a night market food tour, sampling specialties like Sabah fried noodles and durian skewers. The central monument blends Malaysian and Sabahan architectural elements, offering insight into regional history. Early morning visits provide cool air and ideal lighting for photography.
InterContinental Kota Kinabalu is ideal for families, featuring a children’s playroom, family suites, and 24-hour room service. Located steps from Merdeka Square, it offers easy access to the interactive children’s exhibition hall (3-minute walk). The hotel provides family-friendly guided tours combining nature education and cultural immersion. With safe walking paths and shaded areas, it’s perfect for outdoor family time. The infinity pool allows parents to relax while kids play safely under supervision. Numerous family-friendly dining options are available on-site, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable stay.
Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Merdeka Square. The hotel offers modern amenities and breathtaking sea-view rooms, some with panoramic views of the Mount Kinabalu skyline and cityscape.
Another excellent option is Marriott Kota Kinabalu, situated close to shopping malls, waterfront promenades, and ferry terminals—ideal for travelers wanting to explore the city or enjoy snorkeling trips. Both hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi and airport transfer services, enhancing convenience and comfort for guests.
From Merdeka Square, it’s a 5-minute walk to St. John’s Church, a historic colonial-era building showcasing elegant architecture. Continue walking 10 minutes to reach the Sabah State Government Building, known for its modernist design and green rooftop garden.
For Tanjong Manis Beach, take a short e-hailing or taxi ride (about 8 minutes) along scenic coastal roads. Alternatively, visit the nearby Kota Kinabalu Central Market directly across the square—perfect for sampling local delicacies like grilled Sabah fish and pandan-coconut rice cakes while immersing in authentic local culture.
Near Merdeka Square, visitors can enjoy traditional indigenous performances held on weekends at the open-air stage, featuring vibrant dances and native musical instruments from the Kadazan-Dusun and Bajau communities.
Just steps away, the Sabah Museum offers free admission and showcases authentic artifacts, traditional costumes, and historical exhibits highlighting the heritage of local tribes. For a hands-on experience, join a guided market tour led by local experts, exploring spice stalls and craft workshops where you can try making traditional woven baskets or batik fabrics, offering an immersive connection to Sabahan culture.
See what other travelers say about Merdeka Square
This hotel in Kota Kinabalu is an absolute gem for value seekers! I was genuinely impressed by the combination of luxury amenities and affordability—feeling like I was getting a 5-star experience at a 4-star price. The fitness center is well-equipped, modern, and spotlessly clean, making it easy to stay active during my stay. The overall environment is peaceful and beautifully maintained, with excellent hygiene standards throughout. Best of all, it's just a 5-minute walk to the nearest shopping mall and some of the most authentic seafood stalls in town—perfect for a quick bite after a long day. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and great service without breaking the bank, this is definitely the place to stay.
Staying at Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu was an absolute highlight of my trip to Sabah. The view from the balcony is breathtaking—every evening, the sunset painting the sea in golden hues feels like watching a living postcard. The room itself is spacious and thoughtfully designed: a comfortable bedroom, a separate living area perfect for relaxing with a movie, and a fully equipped kitchenette that made preparing simple meals easy and enjoyable. The bathroom features a smart wet-dry separation, making it both practical and refreshing. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—just a short walk to the waterfront promenade, local night markets, and a variety of dining options. I loved strolling along the beach in the evenings, enjoying the cool breeze and the calming sound of waves. Everything about this stay was seamless—comfortable, convenient, and stunningly scenic. If you're visiting Kota Kinabalu, this is definitely a top pick for a memorable, stress-free experience.
Staying at Horizon Hotel was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The hotel ambiance is peaceful and well-maintained, with a charming small rooftop infinity pool that’s perfect for relaxing or snapping some great photos. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Kota Kinabalu’s bustling Jalan Gaya for shopping and street food, and even closer to Sunrise Mall for dining and entertainment. What really stood out? Right outside the door, there’s a Misto Ice Cream shop—perfect for grabbing a cool drink anytime. Everything is so convenient, yet the place still feels quiet and private. With top-notch service and an excellent balance of comfort and value, this hotel truly delivers on every level. I’d definitely recommend it to travelers who want a hassle-free stay in Kota Kinabalu.
Staying at this Kota Kinabalu CBD Sky Hotel with a 2-bedroom suite was an absolute pleasure. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of the city, making it super easy to explore local attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas without needing to rely on long commutes. The room itself was spacious and well-designed, offering plenty of comfort for a group or family stay. Everything was clean, modern, and thoughtfully equipped. What really stood out was the exceptional service—the staff were friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. Whether it was checking in or getting recommendations, they made the experience seamless. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and hospitality. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu, especially those looking for a stress-free, enjoyable stay.
The Gaya Centre Hotel completely exceeded my expectations! The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—definitely not what I expected based on some of the older reviews. While the building has a bit of vintage charm and the décor feels dated, it's still in excellent condition overall. What really stands out is the location—just a 10-minute walk from Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman (Chinatown Pier), making it super convenient for exploring the area, grabbing street food, or heading out for a night on the town. The staff were friendly and helpful, adding to the great experience. If I’m ever back in Kota Kinabalu, this will be my top pick again. Highly recommended for travelers who value convenience and good value!
The value for money here is outstanding! The room was much larger than the photos suggested—especially the bathroom, which felt spacious and well-designed. Right across from the hotel is a convenience store, and there are several restaurants nearby that look promising. I especially loved the retro-inspired design with exposed concrete and brick walls—it gives the place a unique, cozy atmosphere. At night, it’s incredibly peaceful and relaxing, making it feel like a quiet retreat in the middle of the city. Cleanliness, layout, and attention to detail are all top-notch. This is definitely a standout choice if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’d absolutely stay here again.
Staying at Celyn Hotel City Mall was an absolute delight. The hotel is perfectly located right beside and connected to the City Mall, making everything super convenient—whether you're grabbing a bite, shopping, or heading out to explore. There's such a wide variety of dining options nearby that you'll never go hungry, and the prices are very reasonable for the quality. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with great attention to detail. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. Being directly linked to the mall means you can easily access all amenities without stepping outside, which is a huge plus, especially in the tropical heat. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value convenience, comfort, and great value. I’d highly recommend this hotel and would definitely stay here again.
Our entire stay at Hotel N°5 was absolutely fantastic from the moment we arrived. The hotel is immaculately clean, and it's clear the housekeeping team takes great pride in maintaining spotless rooms. The location strikes the perfect balance—close to downtown for easy access to restaurants and shops, yet quiet enough to unwind and get a good night’s sleep. The staff were consistently warm, professional, and genuinely welcoming—always smiling and ready to help with anything we needed. It felt less like a hotel and more like a home away from home. Highly recommend this gem in Kota Kinabalu for both comfort and convenience.
This homestay completely exceeded my expectations! Located just steps away from Jesselton Quay in Kota Kinabalu, it’s incredibly convenient—right next to the waterfront with easy access to local transport and attractions. The room design is a standout: modern yet cozy, with thoughtful details that make it feel truly special. The view? Absolutely breathtaking—every morning I woke up to the gentle waves and golden sunrises over the sea. It felt like staying in a little paradise. The host was warm, welcoming, and always ready to help with tips or recommendations. Cleanliness, comfort, and hospitality all at top level. I’ll definitely be coming back and highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu.
Staying at Jesselton Quay Citypads in Kota Kinabalu was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the central seafood market, the famous durian street, and vibrant Gaya Street for shopping and nightlife. The sea view from the room is stunning, with gentle ocean breezes drifting through the window. The pillows were incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. I especially appreciated having a small kitchenette—perfect for preparing light meals or snacks before heading out on a day trip. Everything is so convenient: shopping malls, local eateries, and transportation are all within walking distance. The value for money is outstanding—this place offers luxury and comfort without the premium price tag. Highly recommend this gem if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu!
This is my second time booking Hotel Bundusan for my dad, who specifically asked to stay here again — and now I understand why! He stayed solo for two nights and absolutely loved the experience. The room was brand new, spotlessly clean, and so quiet — perfect for a relaxing getaway. The front desk staff were genuinely friendly and welcoming, which made a lasting impression. If you're looking for a peaceful, comfortable stay in Kota Kinabalu, this hotel is a top recommendation. It’s clear that attention to detail and guest comfort are taken seriously here.
Stayed at InHotel Inanam and was truly impressed from start to finish. The staff were exceptionally friendly and attentive, always ready to help with any request. The hotel's surroundings are beautiful—clean, peaceful, and surrounded by lush greenery, just steps away from the beach. Public transportation is nearby, making it easy to explore Kota Kinabalu. The room was spotless, well-appointed, and had a modern, calming vibe. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches throughout the property—everything felt intentional and comfortable. It’s rare to find such a relaxing atmosphere combined with great service and value. Definitely planning to return and recommending it to everyone.
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