Every November, Lisbon transforms into the beating heart of the global tech community and 2025 will be no exception. Web Summit 2025, taking place from November 10 to 13, is set to attract over 70,000 attendees from across the world. From startup founders and venture capitalists to global CEOs and thought leaders, the event is where innovation, opportunity, and ideas converge.
If you’re planning to attend this year’s edition, here’s everything you need to know, from navigating the conference to getting around Lisbon efficiently and in style.
What Is Web Summit?
Founded in 2009, Web Summit has grown into Europe’s largest and most influential technology conference. It brings together leaders from over 160 countries across sectors like artificial intelligence, sustainability, marketing, mobility, and fintech.
Expect to see big names. From Maria Sharapova and Lucy Guo to Toto Wolff and Alex Schultz (Meta), sharing insights on the main stage. The event’s scale is unmatched: 1,000+ speakers, 2,600 startups, and 1,200 investors, all under one roof at Lisbon’s Altice Arena and FIL Exhibition Centre.
But beyond the stages, what makes Web Summit truly special is the networking. It’s where chance conversations at a side event or café can lead to groundbreaking partnerships or investments.
What to Expect & a Peek at the Schedule
The event begins with Opening Night on Monday, November 10, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on the Centre Stage, setting the tone for the week.
From Tuesday, November 11, sessions start around 10:00 AM and continue throughout the day, covering everything from artificial intelligence and sustainability to venture capital and digital policy. Highlights on the early schedule include “Building for the 99%: inside Lovable, the world’s fa…” on the Centre Stage, “The legacy playbook for AI agents won’t work” on Stage 4, and “Building Europe’s digital immune system” on Stage 13.
With hundreds of sessions happening in parallel, the official Web Summit app is essential for managing your agenda, discovering speakers, and making the most of every opportunity.
Making the Most of Web Summit
With thousands of talks, workshops, and side events, planning ahead is crucial. Here are some quick tips:
- Set clear goals. Are you there to network, learn, or pitch? Having focus helps maximize ROI.
- Refine your pitch. Whether you’re an investor or startup, be ready to describe who you are and what you do in 20 seconds.
- Join side events. Many meaningful connections happen after hours, at dinners, rooftop gatherings, and casual meetups around the city.
- Pack Smart: Bring comfortable shoes, a portable charger, and business cards (yes, they’re still handy).
- Avoid Rush Hours: If you’re using taxis or chauffeur services, leave a buffer time before sessions start.
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: There are water refill stations at the venue, but lines for food can be long. Snacks are your best friend.
Getting to Web Summit: Your Travel and Transport Guide
The venue is located in the Parque das Nações district, a modern part of Lisbon just 10 minutes from the airport. The easiest way to reach it is via the Red Metro Line, which connects the airport directly to the Oriente Station, right next to the venue.
However, during Web Summit, public transport can get crowded and traffic near the venue is notoriously slow. That’s where a premium chauffeur service in Lisbon becomes a smart alternative.
A private driver allows you to:
- Move seamlessly between your hotel, venue, and evening events.
- Save time during peak hours.
- Work or take calls comfortably between sessions.
- Enjoy stress-free airport transfers before and after the conference.
At Chauffeurs & Services, professional drivers ensure smooth, punctual transfers, whether you’re heading to Altice Arena or to an investor dinner downtown.
Where to Stay in Lisbon and Why It’s the Perfect Host City
Accommodation fills up quickly around Web Summit, so booking early is essential. The best areas for convenience and atmosphere include Parque das Nações, the modern district closest to the venue and ideal for business travelers; Alfama and Baixa, perfect for those seeking a more authentic Lisbon experience with cobblestone streets, local restaurants, and panoramic views; and Avenida da Liberdade, the city’s elegant boulevard lined with designer boutiques and five-star hotels.
Lisbon’s charm lies in its combination of old-world beauty and modern innovation. It’s a hub for startups and tech talent, supported by government incentives and a vibrant international community.
Beyond the conference, you’ll find a city that’s walkable, safe, and endlessly photogenic. From the tiled façades of Chiado to the hills of Bairro Alto. Add sunshine, seafood, and friendly locals, and it’s easy to see why Lisbon remains a favorite for business travelers.
Final Thoughts
Web Summit is more than an event, it’s an ecosystem. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or tech enthusiast, the conversations you’ll have here can redefine your business and career.
Make your experience seamless by planning early, setting clear goals, and choosing comfortable, efficient transportation.
With a reliable chauffeur service in Lisbon, you can focus on what truly matters: connecting, learning, and enjoying every moment of Europe’s biggest tech gathering.
