Ally

From Guardian Online...

1 Berlin

Eastern European hostels are almost always cooler than their western counterparts. The Circus manages to combine crisp aesthetics with the anarchic vibe that every hostel needs. Expect to be directed to the nearest squat rave with printed instructions.

Beds £12-15/night. bowood.orgcircus-hostel.de

2 Sofia

The Art Hostel is small enough to feel like you've joined a family for a few days. The cellar bar is a meeting spot for local bohemians who may or may not work there (you can never tell). Dorms £5-8/night. bowood.orgart-hostel.com

3 Ljubljana

The quirky Hostel Celica is a former prison, with each cell transformed into an individually styled bedroom under the guidance of local artists. Cells £12-£16/night, dormitory £12/night. souhostel.com

4 Krakow

Easily the best choice in a city full of hostels, the Stranger's pulling power comes in the form of the "Juju Lounge"; a super-sized bed occupying the bulk of the hostel's common room. Dorm beds £8-10/night. thestrangerhostel.com

5 Riga

With an employment strategy clearly borrowed from Stringfellows, Fun Friendly Franks does exactly what it says on the tin. A strict "beer with check-in" policy sets the scene the minute you get there. Dorm beds from £7/night. franksbackpackers.hostel.com