Copenhagen Self-Guided Murder Mystery Tour by Amalienborg Palace

Exploring Copenhagen through a Murder Mystery: A Genuine Look at the Self-Guided Tour near Amalienborg Palace

If you’re hunting for a different way to experience Copenhagen’s city center, the Copenhagen Self-Guided Murder Mystery Tour by Amalienborg Palace might just pique your interest. This isn’t your average sightseeing walk. Instead, it offers a chance to step into a 19th-century detective’s shoes and solve a murder mystery inspired by real events. Whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast or simply want a more interactive way to enjoy the city’s sights, this tour has some appealing elements, but it’s not without its quirks.

What we really like about this experience is the combination of storytelling and exploration. First, it’s flexible—you can start anytime, pick up your materials at a convenient spot, and go at your own pace. Second, the route covers some of Copenhagen’s most picturesque spots, including Nyhavn and Amalienborg Palace, so it’s visually rewarding even if you’re just casually strolling between clues. However, a potential drawback is that this tour takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, which might feel a bit long if you’re short on time or looking for a quick activity. It’s best suited to those who enjoy puzzle-solving, history, or a good story woven into their sightseeing.

If you’re someone who appreciates a blend of history, mystery, and scenic views, and doesn’t mind standing or walking for a couple of hours, this experience could fit nicely into your Copenhagen itinerary. It’s also a good pick if you prefer solo exploration or small private groups, since it’s a private activity. But if you’re looking for something more relaxed or a guided tour with a live guide, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Self-guided flexibility: You choose when to start and how to pace your investigation.
• Cultural and scenic highlights: Pass by iconic spots like Nyhavn and Amalienborg Palace.
• Engaging puzzles: Suitable for mystery lovers and those who enjoy riddles, with reviews noting it’s “not too hard but quite entertaining.”
• Duration: Expect around 1.5 to 2 hours of walking and puzzle-solving, so be prepared to stand and move around.
• Cost: At $29.09 per person, it’s an affordable way to add a unique activity to your day, especially considering the scenic route.
• Limited inclusion: Admission to the Amalienborg Palace Museum isn’t included, so plan for that if you want to explore inside.

Experience Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point: Maria’s Kiosk in Holbergsgade

The adventure kicks off at Maria’s Kiosk, a central and accessible spot in Copenhagen. From here, you’ll receive your mystery kit—probably a notebook or similar materials—and instructions to start your detective work. The setup is straightforward, making it easy to jump in without a guided guide telling you what to do.

The Mystery: A 19th-century Murder

You’re cast as a trusted investigator in Copenhagen’s past, tasked with solving a brutal street murder near Amalienborg Palace. The story itself is inspired by real events, adding an extra layer of intrigue. The challenge is to gather enough evidence and identify the correct culprit, which requires paying close attention to clues along the way.

The Route & Key Stops

Stop 1: Amalienborg Palace Museum
This is where the mystery begins, and you’ll stroll through the area around the Royal Palace. While the museum admission isn’t included in the ticket, the outside view of the palace itself offers a regal backdrop to your sleuthing. The guided materials you receive will direct you to look for specific details, clues, or historical references connected to the scene of the crime.

Stop 2: Sankt Annae Kirke
The second stop is near this charming church, which serves as the ending point of your investigation. The review mentions that this part takes around 25 minutes, so it’s manageable even if your time in Copenhagen is limited.

Stop 3: Nyhavn
The final leg takes you past one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric areas—Nyhavn. The colorful buildings and lively harbor views make it one of the city’s top photo spots, and walking here provides a nice scenic break after your detective work. The mystery concludes near Sankt Annæ Plads, where you’ll gather all your clues and hopefully crack the case.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Duration: Expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on how quickly you solve the clues and walk around.
• Walking & Standing: The reviews note you’ll be on your feet for most of the time, and the walking is spread out across central Copenhagen.
• Price & Value: At roughly $30, it’s a reasonable price for an experience that combines history, scenery, and a bit of brainwork. Considering you’re walking around iconic spots, it adds value beyond a traditional walking tour.
• Booking & Flexibility: Book at least two weeks in advance if possible; you’ll be able to start whenever it suits you, which is great for fitting into a flexible schedule.

What Past Participants Say

One reviewer describes it as a “very well put together mystery tour with high-quality guide materials,” noting that it’s quite detailed and takes over two hours, making it a good choice if you enjoy more in-depth riddles. Others mention that it’s “not too hard but quite entertaining,” suggesting it’s accessible without being overly challenging. They also comment that it’s a fun way to fill time before a flight, especially if you’re in Copenhagen for a short stay.

However, some recognize that it might not be the best for those seeking a quick activity or a super simple puzzle. The fact that it’s self-guided means you’ll need to be comfortable navigating and reading your clues independently.

Final Thoughts: Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for mystery lovers, history buffs, or travelers who enjoy interactive experiences. If you relish solving puzzles and are comfortable walking around for a couple of hours, you’d likely find this fun and engaging. The scenic stops, especially Nyhavn, make it visually rewarding, and the flexibility allows you to customize your pace.

It’s particularly good if you’re traveling alone or with a small group, as it’s a private activity where you won’t be part of a large guided group. Keep in mind that it’s not designed for those who prefer guided commentary or indoor activities, as most of the fun comes from walking the streets and piecing clues together yourself.

For travelers on a budget, it offers a lot of value—combining sightseeing, story, and puzzle-solving at a reasonable price—without needing to pay for multiple attractions or guided tours.

If you’re curious about Copenhagen’s history and vibe but want something more interactive than a typical sightseeing walk, this murder mystery tour could be just the ticket.

FAQs: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically geared toward children, older kids and teens who enjoy puzzles and stories might find it fun. Be prepared for some walking and reading.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Booking at least 14 days ahead is recommended, especially if you want to start at a specific time or during a busy season.

Are admission tickets to Amalienborg Palace included?
No, the tour does not include entry to the Palace Museum itself. You’ll see the outside and surrounding area for free, but if you wish to explore inside, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets.

How long does the tour take?
Most participants report it taking between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on pace and puzzle-solving speed.

Can I do this tour solo or with a partner?
Yes, it’s a private activity, so you can do it alone or with friends and family. It’s not a large-group guided tour.

What is the level of difficulty?
Reviews suggest it’s “not too hard but quite entertaining,” making it accessible for most puzzle fans without being overly frustrating.

Is there a time limit?
There’s no strict time limit, but you should plan for about two hours. It’s flexible to start at your convenience during opening hours.

Is it wheelchair or stroller accessible?
The provided info doesn’t specify accessibility, but given the walking nature and outdoor stops, some mobility considerations might apply.

In the end, if you’re into mystery, enjoy exploring Copenhagen’s sights, and don’t mind a bit of walking, this self-guided murder mystery could be a charming addition to your trip. Just keep in mind it’s a leisurely, puzzle-focused experience—perfect for those who find joy in riddles and scenic strolls alike.