Essential Survival Guide to Web Summit 2021

*Updated 25th October* Whether you made it to previous Web Summit events, or Web Summit 2021 will be your first time in Lisbon, our ultimate survival guide has something for rookies and seasoned Web Summit fans.?

Last held in Lisbon, in 2019, Web Summit will return to Portugal’s capital city from 1-4 November 2021, at the Altice Arena?&?Fil. It’s easy to see why Web Summit chose Lisbon as its host city. Built across 7 hills, Portugal’s capital city is famous for its world-class architecture, traditional cuisine, fado music, stunning coastal views, and laid back vibes.?

Referred to by Forbes as `The best technology conference on the planet′, Web Summit is a conference that brings together the founders and CEOs of some of the world’s biggest and boldest technology companies, fast-growing startups, policymakers, and heads of state.?

Our guide was created to ensure you get the most out of Web Summit, as well as your visit to Lisbon, with useful tips for attending the conference itself alongside additional events, after-parties, transport, and lots of things to see and do in Lisbon.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about Web Summit 2021, including:

• How to navigate the event’s COVID-19 testing policy.
• All of the fantastic events hosted around Web Summit.?
• Highlights from the event, including must-see speakers.
• How to prepare for Web Summit 2021, with lots of tips and practical advice.
• Quick tips for visiting Lisbon, including what to do, see and eat.?
• A rundown of Lisbon’s most popular neighbourhoods.?
• What to do after attending to maximise your ROI.?

But first, some information about attending a large conference in a Covid world...

How will COVID-19 affect Web Summit 2021?

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life in many ways, not least for business travellers, and the events industry.

Event organisers will be making health and safety a priority at this year’s event and will update the Web Summit website regularly in line with any public health measures that come into place during November.?

For those attending Web Summit 2021, the major change is the need to provide either an official vaccination certification or a negative PCR test, taken within 72-hours, in order to be admitted to the conference centre (whether or not you have any symptoms).?

If you’re not in possession of a vaccination certificate, you can take a PCR test in your home country, provided it’s within 72-hours of arriving at Web Summit, and from a reputable, registered provider.?

Updated Covid Safety Guidelines for Web Summit 2021 (25th October)

Thanks to updated guidelines received from the Portuguese authorities, Web Summit can now?accept a valid EU Digital Covid Certificate or a valid vaccination or recovery certificate issued by?one of the following countries: Albania, Andorra, Switzerland, Faroe Islands, Israel, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Morocco, Monaco, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, San Marino, Turkey, United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Vatican.?

To access the Web Summit venue each day, attendees will need their ticket, photo ID and one of the following:

• a digital vaccine certificate OR
• a valid negative PCR test from within the last 72 hours, presented with electronic or printed proof containing the attendee's name and date of validity OR
• a valid negative antigen test from within the last 48 hours, presented with electronic or printed proof containing the attendee's name and date of validity

Your digital vaccine certificate or negative test will be checked against photo ID by event security before you can pass through venue access points.

Additionally, all attendees will be required to wear masks indoors and outdoors within event access lines. The only exceptions are attendees eating or drinking, and those presenting on roundtables, speaking on stage, performing on camera, or broadcasting interviews during Web Summit.

All passengers need to fill in a Passenger Locator Card before departure to Portugal, or onboard: https://portugalcleanandsafe.pt/en/passenger-locator-card. Information regarding certain jurisdictions with different protocols is detailed here. Read more on the Covid-19 guidelines on Web Summit?event health and safety policy.

Where can I get a Covid PCR test in Lisbon for Web Summit 2021?

If you want to take a test once you arrive in Lisbon,? there are various options, all of which must be booked in advance of your trip:

• PCR tests are available on arrival at Humberto Delgado airport but need to be booked in advance using the TAP Partners website. A standard test is 85 Euros, and an urgent rapid test is priced at 150 Euros.?
• Unilabs on Mem Martins Street in Lisbon is open from Monday to Friday between 2pm and 5pm. Click here for further information, and to book an appointment.?
• Delivery app Glovo will bring a test to your location for between 60 and 100 Euros.
• The Portuguese Red Cross has several COVID testing sites across the city with very affordable prices and results within 24-48 hours.
• Germano de Sousa, a chain of private labs, offers tests costing 100 Euros, with results delivered within 48 hours. Click here for more information, and to make a booking.?

For those that have been vaccinated, make sure you are able to present an official vaccination certificate from your country of residence, showing you’ve been double jabbed with a BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Johnson & Johnson vaccine.?

If in any doubt as to what’s required, the Web Summit site has some FAQ’s and further guidance.?

Registration times and locations for Web Summit 2021

You can register for Web Summit in two locations:

• At the airport from?Saturday?October 30
• At the FIL from?Monday?November 1

Please have?photo ID and the mobile app ready when you get to the registration counter. There are specific queues for general attendee tickets, Women in Tech, ALPHA, BETA and GROWTH tickets. Check out Web Summits?essential guide for more information.?

Must see speakers at Web Summit 2021

As one of the largest tech conferences in the world, it’s a must for industry insight, thought leadership, and unparalleled experiences in the tech space, all set in an absolutely stunning location.?

Over 500 speakers (see schedule) will feature at Web Summit. The event will also feature reps from the likes of Apple, Reddit, Spotify, Microsoft, and the Facebook Whistleblower, Frances Haugen.

Frances will no doubt be a highlight for many as she discusses documentation that proves Facebook lied about the effectiveness of its efforts to eradicate hate, violence and misinformation.

We’re also excited to hear from Amy Poehler, Founder of Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls, Dr. Werner Vogels, CTO at Amazon, and Ay? (fka Opal) Tometi, Co-founder at Black Lives Matter.

There will also be a range of roundtables and masterclasses at the event. Masterclasses are a great way to network and pick up some new skills, and are run in partnership with world-leading companies and organisations, from Siemens to the European Commission. Note that an RSVP to a masterclass doesn’t guarantee your space. Seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive in plenty of time to secure your spot.?

Roundtables are 45-minute discussions with industry leaders, where you’ll have the opportunity to talk through the most pressing issues facing tech, business, and society today. Places are limited and are again allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The event organisers recommend signing up for a maximum of three roundtables to ensure everyone has a chance to attend one. If you choose more than three, the Web Summit team will remove you from a random selection,?

With world-class speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities, and proprietary software that will maximise the experience of all attending, it’s little wonder that The Guardian called Web Summit ‘Glastonbury for Geeks.?

How to prepare for Web Summit 2021

• COVID requirements - make sure you have an up to date, official double vaccination certificate from your home country, as this is the easiest way to gain admittance to Web Summit this year. If not, take a PCR test in your home country before setting off for Web Summit, or book a PCR test at a venue in Lisbon before the conference, using the information above. Remember, your negative test results must be within 72-hours to be valid.
• App – Your journey to Web Summit starts with the app. Make sure you download it in advance and personalise your profile so that attendees know who you are. You can also use the app to plan your schedule, so you don’t miss an essential talk, and to connect with fellow visitors before, during, and after the event. You’ll also need the app to register for the conference, which is mandatory for everyone.?
• Agenda — Make sure you pick out the talks you want to attend, and specific booths you want to visit. It might also be helpful to note what you want to achieve from attending the event, whether this is networking with key contacts, or listening to certain speakers.? Downloading the app will make it easier to manage your schedule, and there’s a great map of the venue, which will help you get from A to B in a hurry, so you don’t miss out on any talks. As the venue is so big, it’s also a good idea to arrive nice and early to get your bearings.?
• Visa — If you need a letter confirming your attendance at Web Summit, you can request a letter by contacting their support team at [email protected]
• Meetings — Arrange 1-on-1 meetings via the app with the key people you want to speak to. As Web Summit has an amazing Night Summit, you could also arrange to meet for dinner, drinks, or one of the scheduled evening events. Alternatively, Lisbon has some lovely cafes and restaurants where you could meet for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.?
• Pitch — You will meet and network with a huge amount of people at Web Summit, so make sure you know what you want them to remember about you. Focus on what makes you stand out from the crowd, and keep it light and fun - think banter, rather than a sales pitch. Remember to bring throat lozenges or mints with you, as you’ll no doubt be doing a lot of talking!?
• Hygiene —? You’ll be meeting a lot of people during Web Summit, so be sure to pack some antibacterial hand sanitizer - not just to ward off COVID, but because it’s sensible during cold and flu season. Wearing a mask isn’t required, but the event organisers are supportive of those who choose to do so. Medication in Lisbon is very expensive, so it might be a good idea to bring some cold/flu tablets, painkillers, tissues, and cough syrup, just in case.?
• Shoes — For those who haven’t attended Web Summit before, be prepared, this is a big event, set in a huge venue (whatever you’re imagining in terms of size, double it, and then some!) Smart shoes or killer heels may make you feel more business-like, but make sure your footwear is ultra-comfortable. This is probably the most important piece of advice, so take heed… Basically dress like you’re going for a long hike!
• Take notes — Whether you decide to bring physical business cards or scan people using the app, you’ll want to bring a notebook or use a note-taking app. Whatever you prefer, make sure you have somewhere to note down some key information to jog your memory so you can keep track of who you’ve talked to.??
• Food and drink ?— Bring water, or a refillable water bottle, but attendees are not allowed to bring food from outside the venue into the Altice Arena. It’ll be a long day, and even though lots of booths have food, it’s usually sugar-filled treats that will leave you feeling lethargic. Bringing your own food will also help you circumvent the huge queues at the food trucks, giving you more time to explore.?

Weather — The average temperature in Lisbon in November is around 18°C (63°F), but can drop to about 11°C (52°F) in the evening (bring a jacket). During Web Summit 2021,? it’s set to be quite sunny, so I’d suggest bringing some SPF. Early 20s is borderline tropical for those coming from cooler climates, so be sure to pack some summery clothes.?

• Chargers — Make sure you have at least one backup portable charger or spare battery. And for those travelling from outside Europe, don’t forget your adaptor.
• Accommodation — You can choose some exclusive hotel offers created specifically for Web Summit attendees using b-network.

What to do once you arrive in Lisbon for Web Summit 2021

• Transport — There are lots of cost-effective ways to get to and from the venue, and the Web Summit team have done an amazing job at outlining all your options. It might be useful to know that the venue is called Altice Arena & Fil (previously known as MEO Arena). Most people will use the metro and Oriente metro station is just five minutes’ walk from the event venue. If you’re coming from the city, take the green line from Baixa-Chiado station to Alameda station. From there, take the red line to Oriente Station (Esta??o Oriente). Alternatively, you can take the blue line from Baixa-Chiado to S?o Sebasti?o. From there, you can take the red line to Oriente Station. Check the metro routes and timetables here. Or you can take a bus. Take the 728, 744 or 782 bus to Oriente Station (Esta??o Oriente), which is a five-minute walk from the event venue. Find out more details here for local bus routes.
• Queues — There are queues for everything, particularly for the bathroom and food trucks. Be warned!
• Luggage – No suitcases or large bags are allowed in the venue, only laptop bags or smaller bags. There are cloakrooms, but you will have to queue, so I’d suggest only bring extra luggage if absolutely necessary.
• SWAG — There will be lots of super cool SWAG, so try to keep some space in your suitcase, and bring a backpack along to the event. Once it’s full, it’s time to walk away. There are only so many free t-shirts a person can wear.?
• WiFi — There will be WiFi at the venue, however, it will be shared with thousands of other people, so don’t expect 5* coverage. For those that need WiFi, I suggest arranging a cost-effective data bundle with your network provider.
• Food — There are some amazing food trucks between 2 of the main expo halls, however, be prepared for massive queues. And compared to the local eateries, they’re outrageously priced.?
• Talks — Give yourself a bit of time before talks to figure out conference hall locations. As mentioned before, the venue is HUGE, and it’s easy to get lost. Make sure you plan the talks you want to see and get there at least 15–20 minutes early to get a decent seat.
• Mingle — Conferences are not all about business. Some of the best connections are made at the Night Summit. The app is also a great tool for networking, and don’t forget to arrange meet-ups outside the conference itself with new contacts, whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks.?
• Social — Make sure you’re involved in the conversations on social media. Follow @WebSummit and use #WebSummit on twitter, for official news and updates.?
• Co-working — There are lots of co-working spaces for those who need to get some work done: try Liberdade 221, Product Tank, LACS, and? Village Underground.

Make sure you sign up for relevant evening events

Conferences are all about networking. It might be intimidating at first, but you will quickly get into the swing of things. Take the time to listen to people, and find out how you can help them.

If you can put them in contact with someone relevant, make sure you do so. Avoid ‘salesy’ pitches, instead, connect with people on a personal level. You may not seal a deal while you’re in Lisbon, but if you swap details, and keep in touch, good things are sure to follow.?

Along with the main speakers, masterclasses, and roundtables included in your Web Summit ticket, there is also a range of additional events that you can attend alongside the conference. Highlights include:

1. A pre Web Summit warm up event on the evening of Sunday, October 31st. Bringing together entrepreneurs and representatives of institutions connected with the event to exchange cards, make contacts and do business. Registration required.
2. An unofficial side event for CS/CX practitioners organised by Dixa, Klaus, and weWow. Meet with partners, friends, and companies who care about the quality of their customer support. Be prepared to try out some quality cocktails. Registration required.
3. I'm collaborating with Blend Commerce to host an exclusive meetup for the ecommerce industry with a live DJ, on Tuesday 2 November from 7pm. This event is totally free, and the perfect environment for ecommerce industry attendees to have some fun. Huge thanks to our sponsors who are supporting this event: Gorgias, Grunt Workers and Syte. Registration required.

What to do after attending Web Summit 2021

• Follow-up — One of the biggest mistakes people make when attending events is forgetting to follow up. If you don’t take anything from the event, then it was probably a waste of time. Take the time to follow up with those that you would like to pursue a? professional relationship. A personalised email is a great approach - try something like…?

Hey XXX,

It was great to meet you at Web Summit. I hope you had fun and got a chance to check out XXX restaurant. How was your trip back to XXX?

I’d love to catch up with you when you have a chance to discuss how we can collaborate on ideas.

Let me know when you’re free.

Thanks,

XXX

And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy Lisbon...?

Many of those attending Web Summit are seasoned corporate travellers who attend conferences regularly, going from hotel to event and back again without taking time out to enjoy their surroundings.

In between speakers at Web Summit, you can lose yourself for hours wandering through Lisbon’s picture-perfect streets, with accommodation, entertainment, and fine dining to suit every budget.

Here is a list of places to eat, drink and visit already pinned in Googe Maps, courtesy of Amy Coyle, Head of Customer Success at Optily - thanks Amy :)

Quick Tips for Visiting Lisbon

With an abundance of attractions, beautiful beaches, museums, and buildings covered in gorgeous tiles, Lisbon is a feast for the eyes. I’ve compiled a list of some of my top must-see places, useful tips and ideas for your stay in Lisbon.

• Fado — Fado music is a local specialist and a must-see for anyone visiting Lisbon. My top suggestion for a great Fado bar is A Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto. Alfama is also full of amazing Fado singers, quaint cafes, and stunning rooftop views.
• Food — The dish of the day (pratos do dia) is usually good value for money, especially for those on a budget. Try to avoid anywhere with multilingual menus, as prices are significantly higher. Tapas style food is very common, and at affordable prices, it’s a great option for group meals. Seafood is a huge part of Lisbon’s cuisine, due to its close proximity to the sea. Portugal’s national dish, Bacalhau, is a salted cod used in lots of local recipes and stews. Delicious!?
• Restaurants — Most traditional restaurants close between 3–8, so be prepared to eat later than you would at home. Waiters often bring you food that you didn’t order, don’t be afraid to send it back, otherwise, you’ll be charged for it. Check out Time Out Market in Cais do Sodre.
• Beaches — All of Lisbon’s coastline beaches are connected via Lisbon-Cascais railway.? Praia S?o Pedro and Praia de Carcavelos (return tickets are less than €3) are considered 2 of the nicest local beaches. If you take this line, make sure you check out Cascais (free bikes available) and Estoril.
• Transport — Lisbon’s efficient public transportation, CARRIS (buses, trams and funiculars), is very affordable. If you’re looking to travel via CARRIS and the Metro, make sure you get a Viva Viagem card. The card itself costs €0.50 (non-refundable) and can be loaded with either a single or day ticket or ‘zapped’ with as much credit as you think you’ll need (with a minimum payment of ?€3). You can also buy an official LisboaCard, which allows you to travel for free, and to access some of the city’s best museums and attractions if you have the time during your stay.?
• Beware — Pickpockets are on the lookout, particularly at night. Avoid dark alleyways, and stay with a group in well-lit areas. You can expect to be approached several times by people selling drugs, especially at main tourist attractions. Just ignore them!
• Costs — For help with planning costs, check out this guide from The Savv Backpacker. For anyone on a budget, this list from Budget Traveller should come in handy.
• Tours — Check out some of these free walking tours: Lisbon Chill-Out Free Tour, New Europe Free Tours and Discover Walks.
• Rooftops — Largo de Graca is a great way to enjoy the view of Lisbon’s red rooftops, along with some live music at sunset! Save yourself a steep climb, and take the Funicular da Bica.
• Cafés — If visiting cafés is your thing, then make sure you check out LX Factory. What was once dominated by industrial factories, is now full of cafés, shops, and incredible underground art.
• Attractions — My top must-see attractions are: Monastery Of Jerónimos in Belém and S?o Jorge Castle in central Lisbon. There are too many to mention, for more read The Savvy Backpacker’s guide.
• Ferries — For a coastal view of Lisbon, there are a few low-cost commuter ferries. I’d recommend the Cais do Sodré ferry, which passes under the suspension bridge and the Cristo Rei statue. For great views of Alfama and Baixa, hop on the ferry at Terreiro do Pa?o.
• Tram 28 — Another must for first-timers in Lisbon, Tram 28 passes through picture-perfect neighbourhoods like Baixa, Gra?a, Alfama, Estrela and gets you to S?o Jorge Castle. I’d suggest you get a 24-hour pass, and start at Martim Moniz station, otherwise, you’ll be standing for over an hour, sandwiched between people.
• Bridge — Spanning the Tagus river, the 25 de Abril Bridge is a dead ringer for the infamous San Francisco landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. One of the most photographed places in Lisbon, the 25 de Abril Bridge connects Lisbon to Almada. Best views are from the main square, Pra?a do Comércio, which overlooks the Tagus river. Make sure you visit Santa Justa street and take the lift to Igreja do Carmo church ruins.

Key neighbourhoods in Lisbon

Lisbon is brimming with so much culture, and while it’s impossible to see everything, here is a brief overview of some of the main areas.

• Bairro Alto has some of the oldest buildings in the city and has a fantastic variety of amazing clubs, fado singers, cafes and restaurants.
• Chiado is great for those that want to do a bit of shopping.
• Alfama is the oldest neighbourhood, traditionally for fishermen, filled with winding streets, cafes, restaurants, fado music, Santa Clara flea market (Tuesday & Sunday) and the stunning S?o Jorge Castle.
• Baixa is the main business area of Lisbon, located downtown and was completely rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake.
• Belém is home to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, which serves the best Pastel de nata (Portuguese egg tart), but be prepared for queues! While you’re there, check out Mosteiro Dos Jeronimos. Museu Berardo is the best free contemporary and modern art museum. Give yourself half a day to explore Belém.
• Sintra — A 40-minute train ride from Lisbon (€2.40 return ticket), UNESCO World Heritage city Sintra is a treasure. Grab a tuk-tuk, or brave the steep 1.5km hike to Palacio de la Pena. Surrounded by Serra de Sintra national park, you can visit the ancient ruins of Castelo dos Mouros. You’ll need to set aside a full day for Sintra.
• Cascais — Once a coastal fishing town, Cascais is now a popular escape for wealthy visitors and Portugal’s very own royal family. If sun and sandy beaches are your thing, then the 30-minute train ride is well worth it, if you plan on spending the day.
• Obidos — Once owned by the Queen of Portugal, Obidos is the perfect place for picturesque towns, and a relaxing day trip. You won’t need more than half a day to enjoy this walled town, but make sure you factor in a one-hour train ride each way.

You're very welcome to join a dedicated Slack channel I created so Web Summit attendees can stay updated on evening events and arrange to meet up!

So, there you have it! My ‘Ultimate Survival Guide to Web Summit' for those who aren't sure what to expect, which was me the first time I went to Web Summit 2017 in Lisbon.