Lisbon City Guide for SBC Summit Delegates
Everything you need to know about Lisbon as the host city of SBC Summit: venues, transport, hotels, restaurants, and how to make the most of your trip to Europe's hottest iGaming destination.
Since SBC Summit moved to Lisbon in 2024, the city has cemented itself as a tier-1 iGaming event destination. The 2025 edition (September 16–18) drew 30,000 delegates across Feira Internacional de Lisboa and the MEO Arena. Here's your practical guide to navigating Lisbon as a delegate.
The Venues
SBC Summit uses two connected venues: Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL) for the main exhibition and conference, and the MEO Arena — one of Europe's largest indoor arenas — for keynote stages and networking events. Both sit in the Parque das Nações district, a modern waterfront area built for Expo '98.
Source: sbcevents.com (2025)
Getting There
From Lisbon Airport (LIS)
- Metro: Red Line (Linha Vermelha) runs directly from Aeroporto station to Oriente station (next to the venue). Travel time: ~20 minutes. Cost: €1.65 per trip + €0.50 Viva Viagem card.
- Taxi/Uber: 10–15 minutes, €10–€15. Lisbon's airport is remarkably close to the Parque das Nações area.
- Airport bus (Aerobus): Route 2 stops at Oriente. Cost: €4.00.
From City Center
Metro Red Line to Oriente, or bus routes 728 and 759. The venue is a 5-minute walk from Gare do Oriente — Lisbon's main intermodal hub (metro, bus, train).
Where to Stay
SBC partners with official hotel providers for discounted rates. The best options by location:
| Area | Travel to Venue | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parque das Nações | Walking (5–15 min) | €120–€280/night | Convenience, no commute |
| Baixa / Chiado | Metro 20 min | €100–€250/night | Nightlife, restaurants, culture |
| Alfama | Metro 25 min | €80–€180/night | Budget, authenticity |
| Príncipe Real | Metro 25 min | €150–€350/night | Upscale dining, boutiques |
Prices are indicative for September 2025 peak; book 3+ months in advance.
Eating and Drinking
Lisbon is one of Europe's best food cities at southern European prices. Key spots near the venue:
- Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira): 30+ food stalls from Lisbon's top chefs. Perfect for group dinners with diverse tastes.
- Cervejaria Ramiro: Iconic seafood spot — expect queues but worth it.
- Parque das Nações restaurants: Dozens of waterfront options within walking distance of the venue.
Networking Beyond the Venue
SBC organizes official networking parties on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at venues across Lisbon. The Thursday VIP closing event at INFINITY Lisbon is invitation-only (VIP, Operator, and Affiliate pass holders). The city's rooftop bars in Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are where most unofficial industry dinners happen.
Practical Tips
- Weather: September averages 26°C / 79°F. Light business casual works for daytime; bring a jacket for evening waterfront events.
- Currency: Euro (€). Card payments accepted almost everywhere.
- Safety: Lisbon is generally safe. Watch for pickpockets on Tram 28 and in Baixa tourist areas.
- SIM cards: Vodafone or NOS prepaid SIMs available at the airport for ~€15 (10 GB).
Track SBC Summit dates and side events on iGamingEvents.ai.
Never miss an iGaming event
Track 250+ conferences, expos, and summits across 45 countries — free.