Bom dia! It’s CityNomix here.
November in Lisbon brings a special kind of light, where the sun reflects off the cobblestones and the air crackles with anticipation. For a digital marketer like myself, this is the most exciting time of the year. The world’s largest tech conference, Web Summit, is about to begin.
I am currently in the Portuguese capital, ready to dive headfirst into this vortex of innovation. The entire city seems to be welcoming the future of technology, and you can feel the creative energy on every street corner.
Today, I will guide you through the very first and most crucial step of your Web Summit experience: the check-in process. Based on my on-site experience, this isn’t just a dry explanation of procedures. I’ll share the atmosphere of the venue, key points to watch out for, and some CityNomix-style tips to ensure your start is as smooth as possible.
The Approach: Walking Along the Tagus River
My Web Summit journey began with checking into the nearby “Ikonik Lisboa” hotel. Modern and functional, this hotel serves as the perfect base of operations during the conference.
For a detailed look at my stay, check out my review here:
Ikonik Lisboa Review: The Ideal Hotel for Web Summit
After dropping off my bags, I headed straight for the venue, the MEO Arena. Instead of taking a taxi, I opted for a walk along the Tagus River. The Parque das Nações district, originally built for Expo ’98, is a stunning blend of modern architecture and open waterfront spaces.
The waterfront promenade offers a sense of total openness. Tall white flagpoles stand against the blue sky, cable cars (Telecabine Lisboa) glide silently overhead, and the Tagus River flows peacefully beside you. Walking this path clears the mind and prepares you for the intense days ahead. It feels like a ritual, a transition from travel mode to business mode.
What is Web Summit? A Quick Primer
Before we reach the counters, let’s briefly recap what we are walking into.
Web Summit is a global gathering of over 70,000 attendees, including startups, investors, media, and tech leaders. It’s not just an exhibition; it’s a festival where the entire city becomes a networking hub.
For a look at past events and trends for 2025, please read my complete guide:
Web Summit Complete Guide: 2025 Trends & Report
The event kicks off with the “Opening Summit” in the evening of the first day. This is where the themes are set and superstar speakers take the stage. But to get in, you need to check in first.
The Two Essentials: App and Passport
To ensure a smooth check-in, you must have two things ready before you even arrive at the tent: the Web Summit App and your Passport.
1. The Web Summit App
As soon as you buy your ticket, download the app and log in. This isn’t just a digital ticket; it’s your compass. You can schedule sessions and chat with other attendees. As a marketer, I find the app’s UX/UI fascinating—it’s designed to facilitate connections before the event even starts.
2. Passport (ID)
This is non-negotiable. Even with a digital ticket, you cannot get your wristband without a valid government ID. For international travelers, bring your passport.
Arrival: A National Welcome
As I approached the MEO Arena, the scale of the event became undeniable. Huge banners hung from the ceiling, welcoming participants.
Looking up, I saw the message “Our strategic partners welcome you to Web Summit,” accompanied by logos of the Portuguese government and the city of Lisbon. This demonstrates that Web Summit is supported by the entire nation. It’s a powerful statement of Portugal’s commitment to innovation.
Navigating the Queue: Organized Chaos
The path to the check-in counters isn’t a straight line. The flow of people is carefully managed, leading us around a massive white tent set up under a concrete overhang.
It felt a bit like queuing for a ride at a theme park. While it might look like a long walk, the path is lined with cheerful volunteers guiding the way. You won’t get lost. This detour builds anticipation as you inch closer to becoming an official “Attendee.”
Behind the tent, you can see the “Exit only” doors. Watching people emerge with their wristbands on fuels the desire to get through the process quickly.
The Check-in Experience
Inside the tent, the atmosphere is buzzing yet orderly. Counters are divided by attendee category—Attendee, ALPHA, BETA, Investor, Media, etc.
I joined the “Attendee” line. Thanks to the army of volunteers and the sheer number of counters, the wait was surprisingly short. When called, a simple “Ola!” sets a friendly tone. I showed my app’s QR code and my passport. The staff verified my details in seconds.
The Ritual: Wristband and Badge
Once verified, the volunteer placed the wristband on my arm and handed me my name badge.
This moment marks the transition. With the fabric band on my wrist and the badge around my neck, I am no longer just a visitor; I am a participant.
Important Rule: Never Take It Off
There is one golden rule: Do not remove the wristband until the event is over.
You will need it for re-entry, for the Night Summit parties, and basically everywhere. You sleep with it, you shower with it. It’s a security measure to prevent ticket fraud. Make sure it’s not too tight when they put it on, as it cannot be loosened later.
Ready for the Opening Summit
Check-in complete. My Apple Watch shows the time, and next to it sits the Web Summit wristband—my key to the next few days of inspiration.
Now, I am ready to head to the Opening Summit. In my next article, I will report on the opening ceremony, the key themes, and the atmosphere inside the arena. Stay tuned!
From Lisbon with excitement,
CityNomix
