Lisbon: Pensão Duque (Guesthouse)

Address: Calçada do duque 53 , Lisbon 1200-156, Portugal

Lonely Planet review

A superb choice for euro-pinchers, these budget digs with a heart are near Bairro Alto. A steep staircase leads up to simple, good-value rooms. Choose a small back room to snooze soundly or a bright front room if decibels don't affect your slumber.

You might have to huff and puff with your luggage up Calçada do Duque to get there, but take heart: these backpacker digs get rave reviews thanks to the friendly welcome, rock-bottom price tag and cracking location between Rossio and Bairro Alto. Though nothing flash - think bed, four walls and washbasin - rooms are airy (especially the sunny ones at the front) and shared bathrooms clean. The eccentric Breton owner, Bruno, is a real character and might lend you his Celtic CDs. Doors are closed after dark, but the management is cool about backpackers rolling merrily home from Bairro Alto in the wee hours - just ring the bell. Light sleepers might want to pack earplugs.