Pogo Hostel

Cabin beds under the Cathedral bells

Pogo Hostel's pitch is brutally simple: a bed on Barboros Radvilaitės gatvė, literally a minute from the Cathedral, for the price of a couple of cocktails elsewhere in the centre. Gediminas' Tower, St Anne's Church and the whole Old Town spread out from the doorstep, so you spend your money on the city rather than on the room.

For all its thrift, it isn't charmless. The interiors run to a cosy retro theme, with stylish wall decorations and common areas that feel more home than institution, and the custom-built cabin beds are comfortable and sturdier than the usual hostel bunk. Check-in is self-service and the instructions arrive clearly in advance, with friendly staff reachable when you need them.

Good to know

Pogo suits travellers who rank location and price above everything else. If your plan is to be out from breakfast to midnight, it's hard to argue with a base this central at €20-something a night, and plenty of backpackers name it the best cheap sleep in the city.

Go in with clear eyes, though. The walls are thin and street noise carries, so pack earplugs — past guests insist on it. Bathroom cleanliness is hit and miss, and with only one bathroom on the first floor, queues form when the house is full. The kitchen is small and short on utensils, and there's often nobody at the desk in person, which frustrates guests when something goes wrong.

• Check current rates and availability on the hotel's own site before booking.