A Guide To Work And Leisure In Lisbon

Close your eyes and picture the perfect corporate retreat—stunning waterfront views, world-class venues, and team activities that actually excite your attendees. Now, imagine all of that with effortless planning and seamless logistics. Sounds too good to be true? Not in Lisbon.

Lisbon is quickly climbing the ranks as one of the most sought-after destinations for travel, and for good reason. This coastal capital sees 4.5 million annual visitors, and this growing popularity isn’t just limited to leisure travel—Lisbon has also solidified its reputation as a global hub for major corporate events.

Whether you’re organizing an executive retreat, a company-wide incentive trip, or a conference for 200 people, Lisbon delivers the perfect blend of accessibility, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive in.

Seamless Logistics and Accommodations for Large Groups

One of Lisbon’s biggest advantages for corporate travel is its seamless logistics, making it easy to coordinate trips for large groups. Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) offers direct flights from major cities worldwide, ensuring convenient access for teams all over the globe. Once in Lisbon, the city’s efficient public transportation system—including metros, trams, and private coach services—makes navigating between venues and accommodations effortless.

Another plus about Lisbon is its abundant accommodations. For a large group of around 100-200 people, choosing the right hotel is crucial, and Lisbon offers several standout options:

• EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel: A five-star luxury hotel with 14 meeting rooms and a ballroom that accommodates up to 1,300 guests, making it a fantastic choice for corporate events. It also boasts a rooftop bar, a spa, and modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

• Corinthia Lisbon: This upscale hotel features a conference center, large event spaces, and group-friendly accommodations. With over 570 rooms and flexible meeting areas, it’s ideal for companies hosting large-scale gatherings.

• Tivoli Avenida Liberdad: A timeless five-star hotel that offers a comfortable and stylish stay in the heart of Lisbon. It features classic decor, modern rooms, a rooftop bar with city views, and a relaxing outdoor pool. With on-site dining, a spa, and plenty of spaces to unwind or meet, it's a great choice for travelers.

Top Venues for Corporate Events and Conferences

Lisbon offers an array of top-tier venues perfect for hosting major events like the Web Summit 2024 and the SBC Summit Lisbon, which draw thousands of attendees. If you’re looking to host a large corporate gathering, these are some recommended venues:

• Lisbon Congress Center: A world-class venue with lots of space, perfect for large-scale meetings and conferences of up to 10,000 attendees.

• Pestana Palace & Pátio da Galé: As mentioned earlier for accommodations, this stunning venue also offers elegant spaces for gala dinners and executive events.

• Modern Co-Working & Event Spaces: Unique venues like LX Factory and Altis Grand Hotel provide an innovative environment for corporate meetings and smaller-scale events.

Unforgettable Team Activities

Corporate travel isn’t just about conferences and business meetings—it’s also about creating shared experiences that bring teams closer together. Luckily, Lisbon offers plenty of activities that are the perfect balance between culture, adventure, and relaxation. Here are some top picks:

• Sailing on the Tagus River: Charter larger boats for a scenic and relaxing experience on the river, offering panoramic views of Lisbon’s iconic landmarks.

• Sintra & Cascais Day Trips: Explore Sintra’s fairytale palaces and lush landscapes or unwind along Cascais’ picturesque coastline.

• Museum Tours: Explore Lisbon’s rich history with guided tours at museums like the National Azulejo Museum and the Jeronimos Monastery.

Solo Opportunities

One thing to consider when planning a corporate trip is giving travelers time to explore on their own. Lisbon has much to offer, so give your team a day where they can explore at their own pace. This allows travelers to experience Lisbon in a way that suits their personal interests while still being a part of an unforgettable corporate getaway. 

• Explore the Alfama District: Wander the cobblestone streets, discover hidden cafes, and soak in the charm of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.

• Tram 28 Ride: Hop on the iconic Tram 28 for a scenic ride through the city's most famous districts, from Graça to Baixa.

• Gastronomic Experiences: From food tours to wine tastings, Lisbon’s vibrant culinary scene offers plenty of ways to indulge.

Lisbon is the ideal corporate travel destination with its accessibility, cultural charm, and large-group-friendly options. As a growing hub for both tourism and business events, it offers the perfect balance of productivity and experience.

Need help planning your next unforgettable trip? Contact us at Madison Travel—we’ll take care of the details, so you can focus on creating memories with your team.