Kota Kinabalu is a relatively quiet and less-crowded Malaysian city that features some nice shopping attractions and is surrounded by several lush natural reserves. The region can dexterously switch between a peaceful, laid back nature getaway and a bustling commercial city. Here's a 7 day itinerary to make the most of your trip to this gateway city to the natural wonders of Sabah.

Day 1 - City Tour

Start your tour with a sightseeing trip through the city’s monuments. Walk to visit the Atkinson Clock at Jalan Tunku, a monument built in 1902 to honor Francis George Atkinson, the first district officer of Kota Kinabalu. There are old-fashioned streets and quaint houses that can be viewed on Gaya Street and Australia Place. Hire a Taxi for 1h to see the Sabah State Mosque, a sacred edifice that celebrates Islamic architectural craftsmanship with its striking minarets. On around Likas Bay to the Yayasan Sabah building a round tower built with tensioned steel cables. Taxi on to the Green Connection for an introduction to the wildlife of Sabah and a way to plan the rest of your visit. Discharge your taxi when you arrive at GC. Its easy to get back to town.  In the evening watch the sun go down at Jesselton Harbour.

Day 2 - Sabah State Museum

Visit the largest museum in Kota Kinabalu and watch thousands of artifacts, cultural objects, memoirs and quirky relics like skulls in a huge exhibition hall that's surrounded by smaller display galleries. There's an art gallery and a science and technology center apart from a heritage village in the museum complex.

Day 3 - Shop

Visit the malls of Kota Kinabalu and shop for everything from designer brands and accessories to electronics, local handicrafts and perfumes. There are some good discounts and bargain deals for shoppers, and visitors can buy a lot for less. Start with the Centre Point Mall housing chic international brands and move to Likas square, Karamsing Complex, KK Plaza and Wasawan Plaza. Enjoy a coffee and some snacks at an in-house café in one of the malls.

Day 4 - Kipandi Butterfly Park

Visit the Kipandi Butterfly Park, located approximately 35 kilometers from the town center. The scenic attraction is encircled by the Crocker Range hills and features hundreds of species of rare and colorful butterflies. At night, visit the entertainment and dining hub of Kota Kinabalu - The Waterfront, located at Jalan Tun Fuad. Stroll on the esplanade strip and enjoy a meal and drink at one of the popular restaurants, pubs or dance clubs.

Day 5 - Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

Visit the largest natural reserve in Kota Kinabalu, located on the Penampang–Papar Road. The park consists of a zoological and botanical garden, and features several wildlife creatures like Pygmy elephants, Orangutans, Malayan tigers and Proboscis monkeys. Visitors can take a walking trail through the botanical park.

Day 6 - Handicraft Market any evening in Kampong Ayer

Visit the favorite bargain shopping haunt of Kota Kinabalu visitors. Tourists can pick up inexpensive souvenirs and items like trinkets, key chains, bracelets, bookmarks, pearl jewelry, photo frames, wooden masks, wall panels, musical instruments and several other interesting objects. 

Day 7 - Healing Garden

Visit the Ka’andaman Healing Garden located in the Kadazandusun Cultural Village. Visitors can opt for a relaxing traditional Ka’andaman or aroma massage, or indulge in a foot reflexology session.

Kota Kinabalu is a nice medley of natural and cultural attractions and things to do, that can be enjoyed to the fullest with a well-chalked out itinerary.