
3Olympia Theatre Dublin
Historic Dublin theatre with opulent red and gold interiors, hosting everything from intimate gigs to major performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience live performances

3Olympia Theatre Dublin
Best Time
Experience live performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Dublin theatre with opulent red and gold interiors, hosting everything from intimate gigs to major performances.
"A classic theatre experience with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for catching live music in Dublin."

🚶 Walk from Temple Bar
It's a short, pleasant 10-minute walk from Temple Bar, often easier than dealing with traffic.
⏰ Arrive Early for Pit
For standing room, aim to be among the first 150 in line for wristbands to secure a spot near the stage.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Auditorium
Main Theatre
Immerse yourself in the opulent red and gold decor of this historic venue, perfect for intimate gigs and grand performances.

Intimate Gig Experience
Main Theatre
Experience live music up close and personal, from emerging artists to established stars, in a venue known for its acoustics.

Historic Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the classic theatre design, a beautiful landmark in Dublin's city center, offering a touch of old-world charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for Prime Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk from Temple Bar
It's a short, pleasant 10-minute walk from Temple Bar, often easier than dealing with traffic.
⏰ Arrive Early for Pit
For standing room, aim to be among the first 150 in line for wristbands to secure a spot near the stage.
🎫 Seated vs. Standing
Standing tickets get you closer to the stage; seated tickets offer a different perspective, with tiered seating.
Late Entry is Fine
For concerts, arriving late is generally acceptable; plays might require waiting for an interval.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk from Temple Bar
It's a short, pleasant 10-minute walk from Temple Bar, often easier than dealing with traffic.
⏰ Arrive Early for Pit
For standing room, aim to be among the first 150 in line for wristbands to secure a spot near the stage.
🎫 Seated vs. Standing
Standing tickets get you closer to the stage; seated tickets offer a different perspective, with tiered seating.
Late Entry is Fine
For concerts, arriving late is generally acceptable; plays might require waiting for an interval.
Upper Circle Views
The upper circle offers a view, but can be steep and may obscure the performer's feet.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the 3Olympia Theatre for its intimate atmosphere and classic, opulent decor, making it a beloved venue for live music and performances. While the standing area offers an energetic experience, securing a prime spot requires early arrival. Some seated areas, particularly the upper circle, may offer less-than-ideal views.
"A charming theatre that is perfect for intimate gigs and that has all the services you need, including quite a spacious bar upstairs. Acoustics were great. Visibility was fine (even though I had quite possibly the tallest person sat in front of me). Seats were reasonably comfortable and what you'd expect in a theatre of this vintage. I had a brilliant night and wouldn't hesitate to go back!"
Natasha Coplestone-Crow
"Went to “the weir” and sat in top row and wasted 2 hours of my life. Terrible acoustics, no air conditioning. Sit close to the stage so you can hear the dialog"
Art McCarty
"Beautiful venue, very ordered, you enter just where you need to be. The enter and exit from Gary Barlow show was smooth.
When we set in the first line in the circle, I didn't have a place for my legs, and I'm tall... and you can't dance there. When we stood down, it had a lot of space ✨️"
Adva Zarka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 3Olympia Theatre is conveniently located just a short walk from Temple Bar, approximately 10 minutes. Many visitors prefer to walk along the river, finding it a pleasant and efficient way to reach the venue, especially on show nights when traffic can be heavy.
Taxis are readily available in Dublin, but during peak times, especially after a show, they can be in high demand. Walking is often recommended as a more reliable and quicker option if you're staying nearby.
Yes, the 3Olympia Theatre is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most parts of Dublin city centre. It's a great way to see the city and avoid potential traffic delays.
If you're coming from further afield, consider using Dublin's public transport network. The theatre is well-served by bus routes, and the nearest Luas (tram) stops are within walking distance.
On-street parking can be limited and expensive in this central Dublin location. It's generally advisable to use public transport or walk if possible, rather than driving and searching for parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standing tickets, often referred to as 'General Admission' or 'Pit', are highly sought after and tend to sell out very quickly. It's recommended to be online on Ticketmaster or the official vendor the moment they are released.
To get to the very front of the standing area (the pit), you typically need to arrive early and be among the first in line. Some reports suggest the first 150 people receive wristbands for this area.
Generally, if you have a seated ticket, you will be directed to the seating areas. It's unlikely you'll be able to access the standing area without a specific standing ticket, though some anecdotal reports mention successful swaps.
Yes, for concerts, late entry is usually permitted. You can typically enter even if the show has already started, though for plays or comedy shows, you might be asked to wait for an interval to avoid disruption.
Views from the Upper Circle can be quite steep and may offer a limited perspective, sometimes obscuring the performer's feet or lower stage. While it's a view, it's often considered less ideal than other seating options or standing.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The 3Olympia Theatre is known for its intimate atmosphere, making it a fantastic venue for live music. The red and gold decor adds to the classic theatre feel, enhancing the overall experience for concert-goers.
Yes, the 3Olympia Theatre has multiple seating tiers, including the Circle, Upper Circle, and ground floor seating, in addition to the standing area. The seating is tiered, offering varying levels of visibility.
The 3Olympia Theatre hosts a diverse range of events, from intimate musical performances and concerts by well-known artists to theatre productions, comedy shows, and even male strip shows.
Information regarding specific accessibility features should be checked directly with the venue or ticketing agent. However, as a historic theatre, accessibility can vary, and it's best to inquire in advance.
Photography and videography policies can vary depending on the performer or event. It's generally best to check the specific event's guidelines or ask staff upon arrival. Many performers prefer no flash photography to avoid disrupting the show.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The 3Olympia Theatre typically offers a bar service for drinks. Food options inside the venue are usually limited to snacks, if available. For a full meal, it's best to dine in the surrounding Temple Bar area before or after the show.
The theatre is located near Temple Bar, which is packed with pubs and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines. From traditional Irish fare to international options, you'll find plenty of choices within a short walking distance.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the 3Olympia Theatre. This is standard policy for most performance venues to ensure safety and manage concessions.
Bar menus can vary, but it's common for venues to offer a selection of snacks. For specific dietary needs, it's advisable to check with the venue directly or opt for dining in nearby restaurants that cater to vegetarian or vegan diets.
If you plan to eat nearby, allow at least 1-2 hours before the show's start time to enjoy your meal without rushing. This also gives you ample time to walk to the theatre and find your seats.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary by event. While some shows allow personal photography without flash, others prohibit it entirely. It's best to check the specific event's policy or ask staff upon arrival.
Yes, the standing area, especially if you manage to get closer to the stage, can offer excellent opportunities for photos. However, be mindful of other attendees and avoid obstructing views.
Seats in the Circle can offer a good vantage point for capturing the stage and the overall theatre ambiance. However, the distance might make close-up shots of performers challenging without a zoom lens.
Lighting conditions can vary greatly depending on the performance. During concerts, stage lighting can be dynamic and dramatic, offering unique photographic opportunities. For theatre shows, lighting is usually more controlled.
Professional cameras with large lenses are often prohibited at the 3Olympia Theatre, especially for concerts, to prevent unauthorized professional recording. Always check the venue's policy regarding camera equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing a show, look for performances specifically advertised as suitable for children or family matinees. The theatre's central location means you can easily combine your visit with other family-friendly activities in Dublin, like visiting nearby parks or museums.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider the cost of getting to the venue. Walking from Temple Bar is free and a great way to save on transportation. Also, plan your meals outside the immediate theatre vicinity, as restaurants in prime tourist areas like Temple Bar can be pricier.
couples
Make an evening of it by enjoying dinner at one of the many restaurants in the nearby Temple Bar area before heading to the theatre. The historic ambiance of the 3Olympia, with its red and gold decor, adds a touch of classic elegance to any special occasion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Seating and Standing
Seated tickets provide a more relaxed experience and a guaranteed view from above. The theatre features tiered seating in the Circle and Upper Circle. While the Circle generally offers good views, the Upper Circle can be quite steep, and some patrons find the safety rail obstructs their view, making it harder to see performers at the front of the stage. It's important to note that if you have a seated ticket, you will typically be directed to the seating areas and cannot access the standing floor.
When choosing, consider the type of performance and your personal preference. For high-energy gigs where you want to be in the thick of it, standing is ideal. For a more comfortable viewing experience or if you prefer a clear, unobstructed sightline, opt for seated tickets, perhaps in the lower Circle for better proximity.
Getting to the Front: The Art of the Queue
This means showing up hours before doors open, especially for popular artists. For instance, some fans have reported arriving as early as 8:30 AM for a 7:00 PM door time to secure a front-row position. The exact number of people who get pit access can vary, and it's dependent on the band's popularity and the venue's crowd control measures.
While it requires dedication, the reward is an unparalleled experience, feeling the energy of the performance up close. If queuing for hours isn't your style, seated tickets in the lower Circle can still offer a great view and a more comfortable way to enjoy the show.
A Historic Dublin Gem
Its central location, particularly its proximity to the vibrant Temple Bar district, makes it an easily accessible landmark for both locals and tourists. The theatre has hosted a wide array of acts over the years, from legendary musicians and theatre troupes to contemporary artists and comedians, solidifying its reputation as a premier entertainment destination in Ireland.
Attending a show at the 3Olympia is often described as an immersive experience, where the grandeur of the theatre enhances the performance itself. Whether you're there for an intimate gig or a larger production, the venue's historical significance adds an extra layer of appreciation to the event.
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