Pensao Imperial

If you can handle a lot of stairs and bare-bones furnishings, then the Pensão Imperial could be your cheapo dream come true.

The pension's 16 rooms are tidy, though a bit grungy. Furniture is a grab bag, and there's no air conditioning (fans are supplied in summer). Rooms are priced according to size, view and facilities. Six rooms have only a bidet and sink, while the rest have a private shower (and some have their own toilet).

Located on the top two floors of a six-story apartment building, many of the Pensão Imperial's rooms overlook Praça Restauradores and its Metro stop. While this is scenic and extremely convenient (Baixa, the Bairro Alto and even Saldanha are within easy walking distance), it can also be pretty noisy, given the street traffic and downstairs café (open until midnight or 1 a.m.). Light sleepers should request a back-facing room.

For die-hard Cheapos, the bargain rates and awesome views will make up for the wheeze-inducing climb.

No breakfast is served at the pension. Not everyone on staff speaks English.