Lisbon has become one of Europe's most attractive cities for startup founders — combining a thriving tech ecosystem, affordable living, excellent food, and a growing community of international entrepreneurs. Here's your guide to making the most of the city.
Where to Stay
For Startup Summit attendees, we recommend staying near the venue (Beato Innovation District) or in central Lisbon. Top areas include Alfama and Santa Apolónia for proximity to the venue with historic charm, Baixa-Chiado for the city centre with excellent transport links, and Santos and Cais do Sodré for a trendy neighbourhood popular with remote workers and founders. Our official accommodation partner is TRYP by Wyndham. You can also find great options on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Where to Work
Lisbon has a strong coworking scene. Top spaces for founders include Second Home Lisboa, a beautiful workspace in the Mercado da Ribeira area. Heden is popular with international remote workers and startups. Factory Lisbon is one of Europe's largest coworking spaces in a converted industrial building. And Impact Hub Lisbon is focused on social enterprise and innovation.
The Startup Ecosystem
Lisbon's startup ecosystem has grown rapidly. Key players include Beta-i, one of Portugal's leading innovation platforms. Startup Lisboa, the city's main startup incubator, has supported 500+ startups. And Portugal Ventures, the government-backed VC fund investing in Portuguese startups, provides crucial early-stage funding.
Getting Around
Lisbon has an efficient metro system, affordable taxis and Bolt/Uber, and the famous Tram 28 for tourists. The Beato Innovation District is well-connected by bus and metro, and about 10 minutes from the airport by taxi.
Food and Culture
Don't miss the pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém, fresh seafood at Cervejaria Ramiro, sunset drinks at one of the rooftop bars in Bairro Alto, and the street art and cultural scene in LX Factory.
Why Founders Love Lisbon
Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, startup visa programme, and affordable cost of living make it one of the most founder-friendly cities in Europe. The quality of life, weather, and community make it hard to leave.
Visit for Startup Summit
Startup Summit Lisbon 2026 takes place on September 17–18 at Beato Innovation District. It's the perfect excuse to experience the city, meet a target audience of founders, operators, angels, VC funds and ecosystem partners, and explore whether Lisbon could be your next base.
Startup Summit is a founder-first European startup conference — 2,000+ founders, investors and operators, 150+ speakers, 200+ startup booths, 3 stages. September 17–18, 2026 at Unicorn Factory Lisboa – Beato Innovation District, Lisbon.
Tickets from €49.
