Amsterdam: Treasure Hunt Walking Tour “A Secret Sender”

Exploring Amsterdam with a Treasure Hunt: Is “A Secret Sender” the Right Choice?

If you’re after a way to see Amsterdam that’s a little different from the usual sightseeing crowds, a self-guided treasure hunt might just be your thing. The Amsterdam: Treasure Hunt Walking Tour “A Secret Sender” offers a mix of puzzles, storytelling, and scenic stops all wrapped into a two-hour adventure around the city center. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, I’ve gathered enough insights to give you a good sense of whether it’s worth your time, especially if you enjoy interactive experiences.

What really appeals to me about this tour is its focus on fun and discovery. First, it allows you to explore at your own pace, stopping for breaks, snacks, or photos whenever you want. Second, it’s not just about seeing sights—you’ll also learn interesting stories from Amsterdam’s past. One thing to keep in mind is that part of the game passes through the Red Light District, which could be a consideration depending on your comfort level or those traveling with you.

The main drawback? This experience is designed for adults and older children, so if you’re traveling with very young kids, it might not be ideal. Plus, since it involves puzzles and clues, a little patience and curiosity are helpful. Still, if you’re a curious traveler who loves a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of adventure, this treasure hunt could be a perfect fit.

Overall, I’d recommend this for travelers who enjoy interactive, self-paced activities—especially if you’re traveling as a couple or with friends. It’s a thoughtful way to explore the city beyond typical tours, and those puzzles add a layer of engagement that can make your time in Amsterdam feel more like an adventure.

Key Points

• Self-guided exploration allows you to set your own pace.
• Puzzle-solving adds a fun, interactive element to sightseeing.
• Learn stories about Amsterdam’s Golden Age while discovering hidden corners.
• Ideal for adults and children 7+ (with supervision), especially those who enjoy challenges.
• Includes scenic stops with recommendations for food, drinks, and photo spots.
• Part of the experience passes through the Red Light District, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Treasure Hunt Experience

This tour kicks off at the Mystery City Games shop on Waterlooplein, which doubles as your secret headquarters. Here, you’ll pick up your treasure bag, packed with a map, puzzles, a locked treasure box, and magical tools—think of it as your adventuring toolkit. The goal? Solve a mystery involving a secret society and uncover the true name of a famous member.

You’ll follow a treasure map that leads you to five notable locations spread across the city center. As you arrive at each stop, you’ll learn about Golden Age Amsterdam and tackle challenges to unlock a lock on the treasure box. These puzzles are designed to be engaging and clever, making you pay close attention to details you might normally overlook.

While the adventure is slated for about two hours, the reviews suggest that many groups take longer—some up to three hours—because they stop for drinks, photos, or to simply soak in the surroundings. This flexibility is one of the tour’s strengths. It’s not rushed, so you can really take your time with each challenge and each stop.

The route includes iconic sites like Nieuwmarkt Square, Oude Kerk, Torensluis Bridge, Sint Luciënsteeg, and Westerkerk. Each has its own story and character, and together they form a compelling narrative thread of Amsterdam’s history and culture.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Stops

1. Starting Point: Mystery City Games

Your adventure begins at the Mystery City Games shop, where you’ll receive your treasure gear. This is the hub for instructions and the place you’ll return to at the end. The staff are friendly, and the setup promises a neat, organized start to your quest.

2. Nieuwmarkt Square

The first stop is Nieuwmarkt Square, a lively hub with a rich history. Here, you’ll likely notice the bustling atmosphere and historic buildings. The puzzles here are designed to make you observe the square more carefully—perhaps examining the architecture or statues for hidden clues.

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3. Oude Kerk

Next, you’ll visit Oude Kerk, one of the oldest buildings in Amsterdam. Its gothic architecture and stained-glass windows set a dramatic scene. The puzzles at this site are tailored to encourage a closer look at the church’s features, connecting you with the city’s medieval past.

4. Torensluis Bridge

Crossing the Torensluis Bridge, you’ll experience one of the iconic waterways in the city. The challenge here might involve deciphering symbols or uncovering secret stories related to Amsterdam’s trading history. The views are often praised for their charm.

5. Sint Luciënsteeg

This narrow alleyway offers a more intimate glimpse of the city’s hidden nooks. Here, the puzzles are designed to reveal secrets of local life, with clues tucked into shop signs or historic plaques.

6. Westerkerk

The final stop before returning is Westerkerk, a beautiful church with a tall tower. You’ll learn stories about the church’s role in Dutch history. The puzzles may involve spotting details in the architecture or deciphering historical references.

7. End Point

After visiting these sites, you head back to the Mystery City Games shop, where solving all locks on your treasure box reveals the secret name. The process is engaging, and the friendly staff will be there to congratulate you on your detective work.

What Do Reviews Say?

Looking at the feedback from those who’ve tried this experience, it’s clear that most people find it highly enjoyable and educational. Ida describes it as “very fun and engaging,” appreciating the balance of learning and adventure. She also mentions that the puzzles are accessible enough for a family group, with children able to participate in sharing the challenge.

Oliver raves about the interesting route and the variety of puzzles, saying it worked well with his family’s ages—12 and 9. Megan found it to be a brilliant way to see the city, emphasizing how much they enjoyed navigating their way around while learning about Amsterdam.

Sadie notes that the activity combines sightseeing, puzzles, and history seamlessly, with the flexibility to stop and relax. The staff’s friendliness and knowledge add to the overall positive experience.

A common theme? The self-paced nature of the tour allows travelers to soak in the surroundings without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of local tips for food and drinks along the way makes it a well-rounded outing.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $28 per person, this experience offers good value—particularly because it includes a treasure map, puzzles, and a fun, story-driven adventure. Comparing it to typical guided tours that can be more expensive and less interactive, this one stands out for its personalized pace and engaging format.

However, keep in mind that it’s a two-hour activity, with the flexibility to extend if you wish. You’ll be spending that time actively exploring, which makes it a more immersive way to get a feel for Amsterdam’s neighborhoods.

If you’re looking for a standard tour with a guide talking at you, this probably isn’t it. But if you love games, puzzles, and discovering hidden stories, this is a smart investment.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting Point: Mystery City Games, Zwanenburgwal 178, Amsterdam.
• Start Time & Duration: Check availability for start times; plan for around 2 hours, but be flexible.
• Price: $28 per person.
• Languages Offered: English, Dutch, Spanish, French, German, Italian.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly.
• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance; reserve now, pay later.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, and come prepared for weather changes, as parts of the route are outdoors.
• Age Suitability: Designed for adults, suitable for children 7+ (with supervision). Not recommended for very young children or visually impaired travelers.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This treasure hunt is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy puzzles and stories. It’s especially suited for those who want a more interactive experience that combines sightseeing with mental challenges. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or older kids, it can turn a typical city walk into a memorable adventure.

While not ideal for families with small children or travelers who prefer guided commentary, it offers a flexible and engaging way to explore Amsterdam at your own pace. The route’s highlights, combined with friendly staff and well-thought-out puzzles, make it a refreshing alternative to traditional guided tours.

For anyone seeking a playful, story-driven way to discover Amsterdam’s historic streets and waterways—without the crowds or rigid schedules—this treasure hunt is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience. You pick up your materials at the shop and explore on your own, following the clues and puzzles.

How long does the tour take?
It’s designed for about two hours, but many groups take longer depending on how often they stop or relax along the way.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 7 and up can join, especially if accompanied by parents. The puzzles are kid-friendly enough for children to enjoy with supervision.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Mystery City Games, Zwanenburgwal 178, in Amsterdam. Look for the sign at the “Secret Headquarters.”

What is included in the price?
A backpack containing a treasure map, puzzles, a locked treasure box, and magical tools.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and come prepared for weather—rain gear or sun protection depending on the forecast.

Does the tour pass through any sensitive areas?
Yes, part of the route goes through the Red Light District, so be comfortable with that setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before your booked time for a full refund.

This treasure hunt offers a playful, engaging way to explore a vibrant city like Amsterdam. Whether you’re a history buff, puzzle lover, or just in search of a unique experience, it’s worth considering. Just be ready to think a little, walk a lot, and enjoy discovering the city’s stories along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: