The Monocle Quality of Life Conference, Lisbon, 3 – 5 September 2026
Join the conversation
Monocle has been at the forefront of understanding what makes cities work for almost 20 years. We unpack why some places shine as others stumble, and meet the people who know how to deliver better quality of life for all by creating inspiring businesses and being good leaders.
Every year we bring these passionate mayors, architects and fixers together for our annual Quality of Life Conference. This three-day conference doubles as an urban retreat and invites you to join the conversation at a time when the debate about what makes a great place to call home has never been so important.
Each year we pick one amazing city as the conference’s backdrop – this time we are heading to Lisbon.
What to expect
You can look forward to three days of great hospitality in addition to thoughtful discussions with delegates and speakers from all over the world. There will be myriad opportunities to meet Monocle’s editors and hear about our plans and ambitions as we turn 20.
Oh, and pack well because you’ll need footwear to take you from special-access urban tours and on to some late-night dancing. But most importantly, you should expect to leave inspired, energised and ready to make your next move.
Look who’s talking
Our speakers are a stellar line up of local stars with key insights about Lisbon and Portugal, plus a global list of names who benchmark the best in urbanism, architecture, mobility, health and hospitality. The stories they tell are sometimes moving, sometimes funny, always revelatory.
The schedule
We start with welcome cocktails on the Thursday night – it’s a very social crowd, keen to meet new contacts.
Friday is the conference day: great talks and lively debates (and a tasty lunch). Followed by dinner and dancing at some special venues.
On Saturday, Monocle’s editors lead exclusive tours of Lisbon’s architectural and cultural icons. And then we say bid farewell over a long and sunny brunch. It’s a great experience.
Programme
Thursday 3 September
18.00 – 20.30: Welcome cocktail & registration
Friday 4 September
08.30 – 17.30: The conference at Gulbenkian Foundation
19.30 until late: Dinner
23.00 – late: After party at JNcQuoi private members club
Saturday 5 September
09.00 – 11.00: Cultural & city tours
10.45 – 13.00: Farewell rooftop brunch at MUDE
Monocle’s Quality of Life Conference – it’s time to join the conversation.
Early-access rate available until 25 July with code QOL26EARLY
Our host city
The very first Quality of Life Conference took place in Lisbon a decade ago, and now we’re returning. Why?
Lisbon has held on to its traditions of making and creating while managing to become more international without relinquishing its sense of place. And the city’s hotel scene, restaurants and nightlife have never been livelier. It’s a fascinating place that’s ripe for exploration.
Where to stay
Our editors have selected a list of recommended hotels in Lisbon to ensure your stay is as comfortable and considered as the conference itself.
Hotel & Garden Valverde Lisboa
Avenida da Liberdade, 164, Lisboa, Lisboa 1250 – 146 Portugal
valverdehotel.com
How to book:
Contact the reservations team directly at reservations.lisboa@valverdeliving.com and quote “MONOCLE” for 25% off the hotel’s best available rate.
Bairro Alto Hotel
Praça Luís de Camões, 2, 1200-243 Lisboa, Portugal
bairroaltohotel.com
How to book:
Contact reservations@bairroaltohotel.com with code “Monocle” included in the email subject line to receive 15% off the hotel’s best available rate.
Patio do Tijolo
Calçada do Tijolo 41a Lisboa, 1200-464 Portugal
patiodotijolo.com
How to book:
Use the code MONOCLE0926 to receive a 25% discount. Enter the code in the “Promos” section when booking directly through the website.
Lapa Palace
Rua do Pau de Bandeira, 4, 1249-021 Lisboa
olissippohotels.com
How to book:
Use code MONOCLE when reserving on the website to receive preferential rates (€350 pool view, €420 river view) from 31 August – 8 September (inclusive).
The Ivens Hotel
Rua Capelo N. 5 Lisboa, 1200-224 Portugal
theivenshotel.com
How to book:
Contact the reservations team directly at book@theivenshotel.com and quote “MONOCLE” for 15% off the hotel’s best available rate.
More to come…
