Exploring Faro with a Detective Twist: A Review of the Self-Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game
If you love puzzles, storytelling, and exploring new cities in a fun, interactive way, the Faro Self-Guided Private Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game might just catch your eye. From what we’ve seen, it offers a unique twist on sightseeing—turning Faro into your personal crime scene and your phone into a detective’s toolkit. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this kind of game can add a playful layer to your visit without the need for a tour guide or strict schedules.
What we really appreciate about this experience is its flexibility—you can start whenever it suits you, and play at your own pace. Plus, with a very reasonable price point, it’s accessible for many travelers looking for entertainment that doesn’t break the bank. That said, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a highly city-themed experience—if you’re hoping for intricate local details, you might find it a little generic. Still, it’s an engaging way to discover Faro’s streets and get a taste of detective work.
This activity will suit those who enjoy puzzle-solving, storytelling, and lighthearted adventures. If you’re after a more traditional sightseeing tour, it might not replace a guided experience, but if you want something fun, interactive, and a little different, it’s definitely worth considering.
Key Points

- Self-guided and flexible: Play whenever it suits you, on your schedule.
- Affordable price: Around $23 for a group of up to four, great value for a unique experience.
- Story-driven gameplay: Enjoy a detective story with plenty of twists and puzzles.
- Easy difficulty: Suitable for families, kids, or those new to escape-style games.
- Urban adventure: Uses Faro’s scenery as the setting for your mystery.
- No guide or extra devices needed: Just your phone and the instructions provided.
What Is the Faro Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game?

Imagine walking through Faro’s charming streets, but instead of just sightseeing, you’re on a mission to solve a murder. That’s what this self-guided mystery offers. It puts you in the shoes of a detective tasked with unraveling the case of Balthasar’s death. Played on your smartphone, the game involves following clues, solving puzzles, and engaging with digital characters, all within the city’s scenery.
The goal is to make the whole process feel story-driven and engaging. It’s not just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about diving into a narrative that unfolds as you explore. According to reviews, the experience is very fun walking activity, perfect for those who enjoy puzzles and storytelling.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Faro
How Does It Work?

After booking, you’ll receive an email with clear instructions, including a link to download the Loquiz app. From there, you’re free to start the game at any time on your selected date. The game is designed to last roughly two hours, making it an ideal activity for an afternoon or a relaxed stroll.
You can form a group of up to four people per device, which makes it perfect for families, friends, or small groups. Larger groups can buy multiple tickets if they want to play simultaneously. The game involves meeting digital characters, cracking codes, and completing fun photo tasks—all while following the story of the murder of Balthasar.
The Itinerary and Experience
Given that this is a self-guided game, there’s no fixed itinerary beyond the starting and ending points. The journey begins at the Igreja de Santa Maria, Largo da Sé, in Faro, a charming location that sets the tone for your detective adventure. From there, the game guides you through various points in the city, using clues and puzzles to direct your path.
While the game doesn’t specify exact landmarks in the description, the scenery of Faro becomes your interactive setting. You’ll encounter digital characters, solve riddles, and complete tasks that are integrated into the environment, making the city part of your mystery.
The game is described as easy, which is great for families with kids or those who prefer a casual challenge. It’s designed to be fun rather than frustrating, and it promises to keep you engaged with suspenseful storytelling and unexpected twists.
Authentic Feedback and What Travelers Say

One reviewer, Karen, called it a “fun walking activity” and mentioned she’d do it again in other cities. Her only wish was that the mystery felt a little more oriented to Faro itself, implying that some puzzles could be more connected to local details. This suggests that while the experience is engaging, it might feel somewhat generic if you’re very familiar with Faro or expecting a deeply local story.
Another point worth noting is the knowledgeable characters you meet during the game, which help keep you immersed. These digital interactions add a layer of realism and fun to the mystery, making you feel more involved in the storyline.
Pricing and Value

At $23.09 per group of up to four, this activity is a good deal. Unlike guided tours that can cost significantly more and have fixed schedules, this one offers flexibility and a personalized pace. For the price, you get about two hours of entertainment, puzzle-solving, and sightseeing combined—a good mix when you’re looking for something different from traditional tours.
Keep in mind, the activity does not include physical interaction with the city or extra services beyond the game itself. But considering the fun factor and the story-driven nature, it’s a clever way to explore Faro without the usual hustle.
Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in Faro we've examined
- Half-Day Private Guided Kayak Island Tour
- From Faro: Ria Formosa Eco Tour guided by Marine Biologist
- Guided Nature Tour & Hop On Hop Off 3 Islands
- Tavira Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour
- Faro: Pudim Real Boat Tours 6h guided boat tour Ria Formosa
- Ria Formosa: Guided Bike Tour (3h), Início na Quinta do Lago
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This game is best suited for travelers who enjoy puzzles, detective stories, or interactive activities. It’s particularly good for families with children, as it’s described as “easy” and fun for all ages. If you’re traveling with friends or a small group and want an activity that combines sightseeing with a playful challenge, this is a strong choice.
It’s not an immersive historical or cultural tour, so if you’re hoping for detailed local insights, you might find it a bit light on that front. But if your goal is to enjoy Faro actively and with a storyline to follow, this game hits the mark nicely.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For a budget-friendly, engaging way to see Faro, this Sherlock Holmes murder game offers a nice blend of storytelling, puzzle-solving, and sightseeing. Its flexibility makes it ideal for a relaxed afternoon, and the fact that it can be played solo or in a small group adds to its appeal.
While it might not replace a guided tour if you’re looking for in-depth historical insights, it provides a fun, original way to explore the city’s streets and get into a bit of detective work. Plus, with positive reviews praising the “fun walking activity,” it’s clear many find it a worthwhile addition to their Faro visit.
If you’re into detective stories and enjoy interactive experiences, this could very well be a highlight of your trip. Just be aware that the puzzles are straightforward, so it’s more about the fun of discovery than a serious challenge.
Faro Self Guided Private Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game
“It was a fun walking around activity. I would do again in other cities. It would be nice if the mystery was a little more oriented to the city we a…”
FAQs
Is this game suitable for families with kids?
Yes, the game is described as “easy” and fun for families, making it suitable for children and adults alike.
Do I need my own device?
No, but you’ll need your smartphone to play the game, as it’s played via the Loquiz app.
Can I start the game anytime I want on my booking date?
Yes, once you receive the instructions, you can choose to start the game at any time that suits your schedule.
Does the activity include interaction with Faro’s landmarks?
It uses Faro’s scenery as part of the game, but it doesn’t specify direct interactions with landmarks outside the puzzles.
How long does the game take?
Approximately 2 hours, but you can play at your own pace.
Are there any additional costs?
No, the price covers the game for your group. You only need to have your smartphone and download the app.
Is there a guide or tour leader involved?
No, this is a self-guided activity; you won’t have a tour guide or live interaction.
What’s the meeting point?
It starts at Igreja de Santa Maria, Largo da Sé in Faro.
Can larger groups participate?
Yes, larger groups can buy multiple tickets, but only four players per device are recommended.
Is the game available in different languages?
Yes, it can be played in several languages including English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, and Dutch.
All in all, if you’re after a playful, interactive way to enjoy Faro’s streets and love detective stories, this Sherlock Holmes game offers a lighthearted, fun-filled experience worth considering.
More Private Tours in Faro
- Faro Airport Private Transfer – Albufeira (Arrival)
- Faro: Private 2-Hour Old & New City Walk with Market Visit
- Faro: Full Day Private Charter at The Ria Formosa
- Private Departure Transfer: Algarve Hotels to Faro Airport
- Private Typical Portuguese Picnic in Serra de Monchique
- Charming Faro – Private Walking Tour
More Guided Tours in Faro
- Private Walking Tour and Guided Picnics with Local Food and Wine
- Best of Faro – Guided Bike Tour (2.30h)
- Ria Formosa: Guided Bike Tour (3h), Início na Quinta do Lago
- Faro: Pudim Real Boat Tours 6h guided boat tour Ria Formosa
- Tavira Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour
- Guided Nature Tour & Hop On Hop Off 3 Islands
More Tour Reviews in Faro
More Faro experiences we've covered
- Faro Self Guided Private Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game
- Faro: Private 2-Hour Old & New City Walk with Market Visit
- ALGARVE’S SALT TRAIL
- Faro City and Beach Tour on Electric Tuk tuks
- Faro: Full Day Private Charter at The Ria Formosa
- Private Departure Transfer: Algarve Hotels to Faro Airport
- Private Typical Portuguese Picnic in Serra de Monchique
- Charming Faro – Private Walking Tour
- Private Walking Tour and Guided Picnics with Local Food and Wine
- Faro: City Segway Tour with Wine Tasting Experience
- Service from Faro Airport to Praia Da Rocha Portimão
- Transfer From Faro Algarve To Lisbon

