Web Summit returns to Lisbon from 9 to 12 November 2026, one of the biggest technology conferences in the world. If it is your first time, the event is large, the days are long and the city is busy, so a little planning goes a long way. This guide covers what to expect and how to make the trip smoother.
Where it takes place
Web Summit is held in the Parque das Nações district, on the east side of Lisbon by the Tagus river. The main venues are the MEO Arena (the building many people still know as Altice Arena) and the FIL, Lisbon’s exhibition and congress centre, which sit side by side. The area is modern, flat and easy to walk, with the Oriente metro and train station close to the venues.
How big is it?
The organisers have regularly reported tens of thousands of attendees from well over a hundred countries, with startups, investors, speakers and media filling several halls. Expect queues at peak times, crowded corridors and a lot of walking between stages.
Getting there from the airport
Lisbon Airport is only a short distance from Parque das Nações. You can take the Red line of the metro towards Oriente, a taxi or ride-hailing service, or book a private airport transfer. During conference week the roads around the venue and the taxi ranks get busy, so a pre-booked driver who knows the drop-off points can save time. We cover this in more detail in our guide to getting from Lisbon Airport to Web Summit.
Where to stay
Staying near Parque das Nações means a short walk to the venue, but you will be away from the historic centre. Staying in central Lisbon (Baixa, Chiado, Avenida da Liberdade) gives you restaurants and nightlife, with a metro or car ride to the conference each day. See our comparison of the best areas to stay for Web Summit.
Plan your time outside the conference
Many attendees add a day or two before or after the event. Lisbon rewards even a short visit: Belém, Alfama, the viewpoints, and the famous custard tarts. If you have a free half day, Sintra and Cascais are easy to reach by car. Our 3-day itinerary for Web Summit visitors and our day trip ideas can help you decide.
Practical tips
- Book transport early. Transfers, hotels and restaurants fill quickly in conference week.
- Wear comfortable shoes. The venues are large and you will walk a lot.
- Carry a charger and a light layer. Halls can be crowded and temperatures change between inside and outside.
- Allow extra time. Traffic and security queues are heavier on the first morning.
- Keep your documents handy. Your ticket, ID and booking details are all useful on a busy day.
Need a driver during the week?
We offer private transfers, hourly chauffeur service and executive transport in Lisbon. Request a quote with your dates and we will reply with the details.
Dates and venue details are from public Web Summit information; check the official event website for the latest programme and ticket rules.