The Web Summit survival guide for first timers
Another Web Summit has wrapped, and Lisbon is catching its breath after hosting 74,000 attendees. If you’re planning to dive into the madness next year, this guide (with tips straight from our video chat with first-timers Karen Boswell from VML and Constanze Mitterhumer from the Belvedere Museum) is for you.
“I was blown away by how much there was to see,” said Constanze Mitterhuemer, head of innovation at Belvedere Museum. “But you need a plan, or you’ll just get lost in the sea of talks and panels. The app saved me – it’s brilliant for finding your way through it all.”
Karen Boswell, global CXTO at VML, agreed. “It’s up there with Cannes and South by Southwest in terms of scale. My top tip? Ditch the heels. I wish someone had told me before I turned up – I’ll be packing flats next year!”
Web Summit is a whirlwind of energy, and Lisbon adds to the magic. “The city’s vibe is unbeatable,” Karen said. “The people genuinely want to look after you, and the food, the culture – it’s part of what makes Web Summit feel so special.”
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Tips to survive and thrive
1. Plan your attack. Use the app to cluster talks by location or theme. “There’s so much happening,” said Constanze. “The big-name speakers are great, but the smaller stages have gems too. You just have to pick your path.”
2. Network smarter. Everyone’s hustling, but a little effort goes a long way. “I’d love it if more people added context to their outreach,” Karen noted. “It’s easy to get overwhelmed with generic messages – stand out by being thoughtful.”
3. Breakout events = gold. The evening meetups and CMO sessions are where the magic happens. “They’re doing such a good job of getting the right people together,” said Constanze. “The conversations there are next-level.”
4. Embrace the mix. What’s unique about Web Summit is the blend of big brands and challenger startups, all in one space. “It’s got that early South by Southwest vibe,” Karen said. “The scrappiness, the energy – it’s inspiring.”
5. Keep it human. “What reassured me most was how much focus there was on people,” Karen reflected. “Whether it’s AI ethics or startup pitches, it all comes back to human adoption and creativity.”
6. Enjoy Lisbon. Web Summit isn’t just about tech – it’s about soaking up the atmosphere. From cobbled streets to pastel de nata, leave room in your schedule for the city itself.
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Final thoughts
From the main stage buzz to the quieter conversations in the Speaker Lounge, Web Summit is about finding value in the chaos. “Create value however you can,” Karen summed up. “That’s what everyone’s here for.”
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Want more? Check out our video interview with Karen Boswell and Constanze Mitterhumer for their full Web Summit experience. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth, follow their advice next year – you’ll thank us when your feet survive day one.