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Our top choices for Kota Bharu cheap hotels

Renai Hotel Kota Bahru (formerly known as The Grand Renai Hotel)

Renai Hotel Kota Bahru (formerly known as The Grand Renai Hotel)
4.0 star property
Kota Bharu
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (345 reviews)
"Enjoyed staying here."
Singapore
Rusdi Bin
The price is £46
includes taxes & fees
7 Mar - 8 Mar
Renai Hotel Kota Bahru (formerly known as The Grand Renai Hotel)

Perdana Kota Bharu

Perdana Kota Bharu
4.0 star property
Kota Bharu
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (581 reviews)
"nice place to stay"
Malaysia
norhafizah
The price is £76
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
Perdana Kota Bharu

Diyana Budget Hotel - Hostel

Diyana Budget Hotel - Hostel
1.0 star property
Kota Bharu
5.8 out of 10, (12 reviews)
"No receptionist"
Malaysia
Nurul
Diyana Budget Hotel - Hostel

Hotel O Rayyan Soffea Managed by Oravel

Hotel O Rayyan Soffea Managed by Oravel
1.0 star property
Kota Bharu
2.0 out of 10, (1 review)
"Too much noise. Smelly! "
Norway
Nathalie
The price is £17
includes taxes & fees
10 Mar - 11 Mar
Hotel O Rayyan Soffea Managed by Oravel
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.

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Find out more about Kota Bharu

Discover cheap things to do in Kota Bharu

Kota Bharu, a vibrant city in Kelantan, offers a plethora of affordable experiences for budget-conscious travellers seeking adventure. Start your exploration at the bustling Siti Khadijah Market, where you can wander through colourful stalls brimming with local produce, handicrafts, and the aroma of traditional Malay street food—perfect for sampling delicious local delicacies like Nasi Kerabu and Ayam Percik without breaking the bank. Next, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage at the Kelantan State Museum, which often has free entry and provides fascinating insights into the local history and art. For nature lovers, the tranquil Pantai Cahaya Bulan beach is just a short ride away, offering stunning views and a perfect spot for a budget-friendly picnic as you unwind to the sound of the waves. Be sure to visit the iconic Kampung Kraftangan, where you can enjoy free workshops and shop for unique handmade crafts at reasonable prices. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying around the lively Jalan Kebun Sultan area, where several budget hotels and guesthouses provide comfortable lodging. This neighbourhood not only boasts convenient access to local attractions but also a warm, community vibe that makes it easy to connect with fellow travellers and locals alike, ensuring that your stay is both enjoyable and memorable.

Find the best cheap hotels in Kota Bharu

For budget-conscious travellers visiting Kota Bharu, these five hotels offer excellent value without compromising comfort. Each hotel provides essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay at an affordable price.

ibis Styles Kota Bharu

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a remarkable review rating of 8.8, ibis Styles Kota Bharu is ideal for budget travellers looking for a modern experience. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and various parking options, including free self-parking, making it convenient for guests with vehicles. An inviting indoor pool adds to the appeal, providing a refreshing escape at no extra cost.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a daily housekeeping service, air conditioning, and a garden area for relaxation. Families will appreciate the playground for children, while the concierge service ensures guests have all the assistance they need. The hotel is also located near historical sites, enhancing the travel experience.
  • Nearby attractions: Temenggor Lake - 1 km, Street Art - 1.3 km, Siti Khadijah Central Market - 1.4 km

Crystal Lodge

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Crystal Lodge stands out as a fantastic choice for budget travellers, an impressive guest review rating of 8.6. Guests can enjoy complimentary toiletries and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. The hotel also features a rooftop terrace, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the city.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include daily housekeeping, premium bedding for a restful night’s sleep, air conditioning for comfort, and free self-parking facilities. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the available fitness facilities, while families can take advantage of complimentary cribs for younger guests.
  • Nearby attractions: State Museum - 0.5 km, Muzium Negeri Kelanta - 0.5 km, Siti Khadijah Central Market - 0.5 km

How to get cheap hotels in Kota Bharu?

 

✅ The length of stay in Kota Bharu often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Kota Bharu's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Kota Bharu in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Kota Bharu, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Kota Bharu on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Kota Bharu.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Kota Bharu, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Kota Bharu. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £17*.

✅  Kota Bharu offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Kota Bharu on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Kota Bharu is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Kota Bharu Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Kota Bharu as a budget traveller?
For budget travellers seeking great value in Kota Bharu, excellent options include Crystal Lodge, AAM Hotel, and Salaam Suites Hotel.

Crystal Lodge is a 3-star hotel with an 8.6 rating, offering excellent value with complimentary self-parking, free cribs for families, free toiletries, and free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and practical stay.

Another great choice is the 3-star AAM Hotel, rated 8.0. It provides convenience with a 24-hour airport shuttle, free WiFi, and free self-parking, along with the option for early check-in, making arrivals and departures straightforward.

Salaam Suites Hotel, a 3-star property with a 9.0 rating, also stands out for its high guest satisfaction.
How much does a budget hotel in Kota Bharu cost?
Budget hotel prices in Kota Bharu vary, but you can find a great deal from £17 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Kota Bharu is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Kota Bharu, the city centre, particularly around Jalan Kebun Sultan and Jalan Padang Garong, offers the best value and convenience. These areas are well-known for their concentration of affordable accommodations, including guesthouses and smaller hotels, and provide easy access to many of the city's attractions.

Staying in the city centre means you're often within walking distance of key sights, reducing transportation costs. Solo travellers can easily explore the vibrant Central Market (Pasar Siti Khadijah), the Craft Museum, and the Istana Jahar, all without needing to spend on taxis or ride-shares. The area also boasts numerous local eateries and hawker stalls where you can enjoy delicious Kelantanese cuisine at very low prices, great for keeping food budgets in check.

Additionally, the central location provides excellent connectivity to local bus routes if you wish to venture further afield, perhaps to the cultural village or a nearby beach, again offering a very economical way to explore.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Kota Bharu?
For families seeking affordable and highly-rated accommodation in Kota Bharu, De' Viana Hotel & Apartment and OYO 718 MR J Hotel Wakaf Che Yeh 1 are excellent choices.

The 3-star De' Viana Hotel & Apartment offers great value with free WiFi and free self-parking, which is very convenient for families travelling by car. Some apartments also feature a kitchen, allowing for self-catering and saving on dining expenses. Accessible parking is also available.
When is the most affordable time to visit Kota Bharu?
The most affordable time to visit Kota Bharu is generally during the off-peak season, which typically falls outside of major public holidays and school breaks in Malaysia. This usually means avoiding the monsoon season (roughly November to February) when some activities might be limited, but also provides opportunities for lower prices.

For solo travellers, visiting between March and October can be particularly cost-effective. During these months, the weather is generally drier, and while it's not the absolute quietest period, you'll find better deals on accommodation and flights compared to peak holiday times. You can secure more competitive rates for guesthouses and local hotels, often with less need to book far in advance.

Families might also find this period suitable for budget travel, especially if they can plan their trip outside of Malaysian school holidays (which often coincide with major festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, and mid-year breaks). While the monsoon season offers the lowest prices, the reduced availability of island excursions and potential for heavy rain might make it less ideal for those seeking outdoor activities.
What are the best cheap hotels in Kota Bharu with a pool?
For affordable accommodation in Kota Bharu that includes a pool, De' Viana Hotel & Apartment is a great option.

The 3-star De' Viana Hotel & Apartment offers a children's pool, which is a lovely amenity for families. Guests can also benefit from free WiFi, complimentary self-parking, and accessible parking, adding to the convenience and value of their stay.
Are there any cheap Kota Bharu hotels near Handicraft Village and Craft Museum?
For budget-friendly hotels near the Handicraft Village and Craft Museum in Kota Bharu, consider Crystal Lodge and Crown Garden Hotel.

The 3-star Crystal Lodge, with an 8.6 rating, offers great value with complimentary self-parking, free cots, and free toiletries, along with free WiFi. It's a convenient and practical choice for travellers.
Is Kota Bharu a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, Kota Bharu is a budget-friendly destination, making it an excellent choice for travellers looking to experience authentic Malaysian culture without breaking the bank. The cost of living and travel expenses here are lower than in many other parts of Malaysia.

For solo travellers and couples, accommodation options cater to various budgets, from inexpensive guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels. Eating out is incredibly affordable; you can enjoy delicious local cuisine at hawker stalls and local eateries for just a few ringgit. Exploring the city on foot or using local buses and taxis further keeps transportation costs down.

Much of Kota Bharu's charm lies in its free or low-cost activities. You can immerse yourselves in the vibrant setting of the Central Market (Pasar Siti Khadijah), wander through the traditional craft villages, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Kelantan River. Visiting the various museums, such as the Cultural Centre and the Royal Museum, also offers great value for a small entrance fee.
Are there any cheap hotels in Kota Bharu that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Kota Bharu are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The 3-star AAM Hotel, with an 8.0 rating, offers early check-in for an additional charge, which is convenient for those arriving early. They also provide a 24-hour airport shuttle service and free Wi-Fi, adding to the convenience for travellers.

Another good option is the 3-star Crown Garden Hotel, which also allows for early check-in for an additional amount. This hotel offers free Wi-Fi and free self-parking, which are practical amenities for budget-conscious travellers.

Tune Hotels - Kota Bharu City Centre also has provisions for early check-in for a fee. This hotel provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries, ensuring a comfortable stay.

A good tip for any hotel is to contact them directly after booking.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Kota Bharu with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Kota Bharu. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Kota Bharu as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Kota Bharu for you.

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