From Amsterdam, you can currently secure affordable tickets for flights to Kota Kinabalu in Borneo (Malaysia). Round-trip flights with China Southern are available starting at €497, and baggage is included. However, the lowest fares can only be found for departures in February 2025.
Through our booking form, you can quickly and easily find the cheapest flights for your preferred dates and then be redirected with one click to either Skyscanner or China Southern (roughly €35 more expensive). We’ve highlighted the cheapest availabilities in green:
The journey begins in Amsterdam aboard an Airbus A350 (81 cm legroom) to Guangzhou. From there, you’ll continue on an Airbus A320 (76 cm legroom) to your destination. Both on the outbound and return trips, you’ll have a 6- to 7-hour layover in China.
Most Europeans do not need a visa to enter Malaysia if their stay is shorter than 90 days. The same applies to the state of Sabah on Borneo (where Kota Kinabalu lies). However, make sure that they stamp your passport accordingly at entry. There have been cases where this was forgotten and that may lead to problems with the police.
Search & Book
According to the fare rules, the rate is bookable until January 13, 2025 for departures in February 2025. The minimum stay is 6 days or one night spanning a Sunday, and the maximum stay is 3 months.
You can easily find suitable dates using Google Flights (instructions). Flights can be booked via Skyscanner or directly with China Southern (for €533).
Miles & Points
The booking class is T. The following mileage credits should be possible:
- 3,450 Award Miles on Flying Blue
- 3,450 Award Miles on Vietnam Airlines Lotusmiles
- Customize Calculation
Destination
Information & Tips for Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo, is a vibrant coastal city surrounded by lush rainforests, beautiful islands, and the majestic Mount Kinabalu. It’s a gateway to adventure and natural wonders, making it a favourite destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is during the dry season, from February to April when the weather is sunny and ideal for exploring the city’s attractions, nearby islands, and outdoor activities. However, as a tropical destination, occasional rain is possible year-round.
Getting There
Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is the main gateway to the city, with direct flights from major cities in Asia. From the airport, you can take a taxi, e-hailing services like Grab, or hotel shuttles to the city centre, which is just a 15–20-minute drive away.
Cuisine
Kota Kinabalu is a food haven, offering delicious seafood and local specialties. Don’t miss dishes like hinava (a raw fish salad), tuaran mee (stir-fried noodles), and grilled seafood at the night markets. Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of coconut juice or a local favourite, teh tarik (pulled tea).
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Information & Tips for Malaysia
Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country known for its mix of modern cities, rainforests, and cultural heritage. Popular tourist spots include Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Towers, the historic streets of George Town in Penang, the beaches of Langkawi, and Borneo’s national parks with their diverse wildlife. The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Prices are generally affordable compared to Western countries, with food, transport, and accommodation offering good value. The climate is hot and humid year-round, with frequent rain—especially during the monsoon season from May to November.
Malaysia has a relatively well-developed transport infrastructure, especially in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, where trains, buses, and ride-hailing apps make getting around fairly easy. The capital has a reliable metro system, but smaller cities rely more on buses and cars. For travel between cities, highways are good and long-distance buses are common, while domestic flights and trains connect major destinations. However, public transport outside urban centers can be limited.
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Cover Picture: Coastal scene at Kota Kinabalu | Photo by Brian Aitkenhead on Unsplash