Attending VivaTech is an incredible experience, but the sheer size means that there’s a risk of things getting disorganized. With thousands of startups, massive corporate stands, and endless networking tracks, a lack of preparation could diminish from your experience. To get the absolute most out of your time while staying completely comfortable, you need a clear strategy. This guide breaks down exactly how to navigate the venue like a professional.
Know Before You Go
VivaTech has leveled up for 2026. The most important change to remember is that the event has moved to Hall 7. Here’s how to handle the new logistics:
- Arrival & entry: To reach the main entrance, use the travelator (moving walkway). Tip: You need to print your pass before arriving at the Hall 7 gates.
- Entrance points: Pedestrians should enter through Gate A2. If you’re arriving by car, use parking areas P7 or P6.
- The Welcome Center (Hall 4.3): If you haven’t printed your pass or need to drop off luggage, head to Hall 4.3 first. If you already have your printed pass and no bags to check, you can head straight to Hall 7.
Exploring the Three Floors
Hall 7 is divided into three levels, each with its own energy. Here’s the new layout this year:
- Level 7.1 (First floor): The place for discovery. Visit the Discovery Stage, the Innovation Gallery, the AfricaTech Lab, see India as the AI country partner, and watch live pitches at the Pitch Studio.
- Level 7.2 (Second floor): The business heartbeat. This floor houses the Red Stage, several specialized arenas, and the Business Plaza. You can also find major hubs from partners like Orange, BNP Paribas, La Poste Groupe, and AWS.
- Level 7.3 (Third floor): The executive and international zone. Features include the LVMH Space, the Black and Purple Stages, the Viva Lounge, and the VivaTech Theater. Don’t miss Germany’s “Country of the Year” booth located here too!
Hall 7 is large, so give yourself extra time between meetings and sessions, especially if they're on different levels.
Your Digital Companion: The VivaTech App
The very first thing you should do before arriving is download the official VivaTech app, which is available for free on both the Apple App Store and Google Play. Think of this app as your personal control center for the week.
Some key features include:
- Digital pass: Keep your entry ticket easily accessible on your phone screen for quick scanning at the gates.
- Interactive map: The venue halls are massive (especially now that we’ve moved to Hall 7). Use the live map to locate specific startup booths, major exhibitors, and presentation stages without getting lost.
- Networking tools: Complete your profile to send direct messages to other attendees, set up meetings, and build a list of new contacts.
Planning Your Program
Don’t try to see everything at random. Look through the conference schedule a few days early and build a realistic personal agenda.
If you’re unsure where to start, use Tech Trails. These are curated itineraries built directly into the app that group startups and sessions by specific themes, like Sustainability or Cybersecurity.
Additionally, if you’re looking for highly specialized insights, take advantage of VivaTech’s dedicated executive playbooks. You can read the tailored CMO Guide or look through the Tech Leader’s Guide to locate exclusive lounges, expert-led workshops, and specific peer networking areas.
Practical Information for the Day Of
Knowing the logistics ahead of time will save you from unnecessary morning stress.
- Dates: Wednesday, June 17 to Saturday, June 20, 2026
- Opening hours: Doors open at 8:30 AM on Wednesday, and at 9:00 AM from Thursday through Saturday. The venue closes at 6:00 PM every day.
- Location: Paris Expo Porte de Versailles (Hall 7), 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles, 75015 Paris, France.
- Getting there: Public transport is highly recommended. Take Metro Line 12 or Tramways T2 and T3a to the “Porte de Versailles” station.
- Luggage: If you are arriving straight from the airport or train station, a secure luggage check-in service is located right outside Gate A2.
What to Pack: The Comfort Checklist
A successful event relies heavily on physical comfort. Here is a realistic checklist of what to bring in your bag:
- Comfortable shoes: You will easily walk over 10,000 steps a day on hard exhibition floors. Leave the uncomfortable shoes at home.
- A portable battery charger: Constant phone scanning, networking, and photo-taking will empty your battery before lunchtime; bring a reliable power bank.
- Fresh essentials: Pack a small bottle of hand sanitizer, a travel-size deodorant, and some mints. Staying fresh through back-to-back meetings builds confidence.
- A refillable water bottle: Staying hydrated keeps your energy levels stable during long conversations (and keeps your voice around).
Navigating the On-Site Experience
When you are inside the halls, look out for Grand Central right in the heart of the venue. This support desk is your go-to spot for general help, app troubleshooting, or live schedule updates.
Beyond Business: The Festival Vibe
VivaTech is a professional event, but it also embraces a lively festival spirit. Don’t rush back to your hotel as soon as the afternoon sessions end. From Wednesday to Friday, between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, you can enjoy the Playground just outside the main hall. It’s a great, relaxed open-air space featuring live music and casual drinks where you can unwind and chat with other visitors without the formality of a meeting room.
The Grand Finale
While the first three days focus strictly on business and technology professionals, Saturday, June 20 is the official Open Day. On this final day, VivaTech opens its doors to the general public. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring your family and children with you to see futuristic tech demonstrations, experience interactive gaming zones, and discover inspiring scientific innovations together.
For any remaining questions, you can read the official FAQ page or follow our social media channels for real-time announcements. Planning your visit in advance is the best way to make sure you have a highly productive and stress-free week in Paris. Don’t miss out on Europe’s benchmark tech event, head over to the official portal to secure your tickets today. There are less than two weeks left!
