Thinking about adding a twist of mystery to your Copenhagen visit? The Copenhagen Self-Guided Murder Mystery Tour in Nyhavn offers an engaging way to explore this iconic harbor area while solving a fun, historically inspired crime. For around $29, you get an interactive experience that’s suitable for all ages and interests—whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or a small group of friends. The adventure begins at Maria’s Kiosk and takes you through the lively streets of Nyhavn, immersing you in a story set in 1931 about burglaries that baffled the local police for years.
What really makes this experience stand out is its self-guided format. You purchase the mystery online, pick up your materials at the designated spot, and then set off whenever suits you. I especially appreciate how flexible that is—no rigid schedule, no guided tour crowd, just your pace as you follow clues and piece together the story. Plus, the story is rooted in true events, giving it a layer of authenticity that can spark curiosity and conversation, particularly with older kids or history enthusiasts.
However, a key point to consider is that the entire mystery is only available in Danish. While this may not be an issue for Danish speakers, visitors who don’t understand Danish might find this frustrating or limiting. Still, many reviewers highlight how enjoyable it was for families, thanks to the interactive nature and the ability to pause or take breaks as needed. Plus, the walk through Nyhavn—with its colorful buildings, historic ships, and bustling cafés—is a treat on its own.
In sum, this tour offers a unique blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and puzzle-solving. It’s a perfect fit if you’re seeking an activity that’s both fun and educational, and that allows you to explore at your own pace. Just keep in mind that language could be a barrier if Danish isn’t your native tongue. For anyone comfortable with that, or eager to try something different, it’s a creatively relaxing way to spend a couple of hours in Copenhagen.
Key points / Takeaways

- Flexible self-guided format allows you to start and pause whenever you like, making it ideal for a relaxed, family-friendly outing.
- Authentic story based on true events from 1931 Nyhavn burglaries, adding a historical dimension to your walk.
- Cost-effective at around $29 per person, offering good value for an interactive, story-driven experience.
- Suitable for all ages, with reviews praising its cozy, entertaining atmosphere and the ability to do it at your own speed.
- Potential language barrier—the mystery is only available in Danish, so non-Danish speakers might find it less accessible.
- Enjoy Nyhavn’s vibrant atmosphere during your walk; the colorful houses and historic boats make for a picture-perfect setting.
Exploring Copenhagen’s Nyhavn with a Murder Mystery

If you’re looking for a way to see Copenhagen’s most picturesque harbor area while engaging your brain, the Self-Guided Murder Mystery Tour in Nyhavn could be just the ticket. This experience combines the charm of Nyhavn’s brightly painted townhouses and lively cafés with a compelling storyline set in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a series of burglaries that stumped the police for years. As you investigate, you’ll step into the shoes of a young detective, unraveling clues along the way.
What I find particularly appealing about this tour is its autonomous nature. You purchase the experience online for about $29, then pick up your materials at Maria’s Kiosk. From there, you’re free to start whenever the mood strikes. The estimated duration ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, so it’s manageable even if you’re short on time. Plus, since it’s designed to be private and flexible, you won’t be rushed or pressured—perfect for families or travelers who prefer to set their own pace.
Loving the local insights? Here are more guided experiences we recommend in Copenhagen
The Itinerary: A Walk Through Historical Nyhavn
The tour begins at Maria’s Kiosk, positioned conveniently in the heart of Nyhavn. Here, you’ll find your clues and story materials, ready for your detective work. The story is set in 1931, painting a vivid picture of a city grappling with a stubborn crime wave. You’ll be tasked with solving the mystery of who’s behind the burglaries—an intriguing challenge that sparks your imagination and curiosity.
The story draws inspiration from real events, which adds an interesting layer of authenticity. It’s told in Danish, so if you don’t speak the language, you might find it tricky to follow, but the visual clues and context should still provide a lot of fun. Several reviewers noted how enjoyable it was to do at their own pace, with some taking breaks for coffee or lunch without breaking the flow of the game. This casual approach makes it especially family-friendly.
The Walk: Nyhavn’s Visual Magic
As you move through Nyhavn, you’ll pass iconic sights—colorful gabled townhouses, historic ships, and lively outdoor cafés. The area itself is worth exploring for its charm, even without the mystery. The tour begins and ends right back at Nyhavn, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing. Expect to walk on cobblestone streets and stand or walk for about two hours.
One reviewer commented on how well suited it was for a family outing, with the ability to hold the kids’ interest by solving clues while taking in the scenery. The option to pause or take a break means you can tailor the experience to your group’s energy levels.
Cost and Value
At $28.97 per person, this tour provides a reasonable price for an experience that combines education, entertainment, and sightseeing. For the price, you receive a story rooted in local history, a flexible schedule, and the chance to explore Nyhavn more interactively than a typical walking tour. Though it’s not guided, the narrative and clues keep you engaged, and many find that the relaxed pace enhances the enjoyment.
Who This Tour Suits Best
This activity is perfect if you’re comfortable with Danish or don’t mind a story in Danish, or if you’ve got a group that enjoys puzzles and storytelling. It’s an excellent choice for families, history buffs, or anyone looking to add a personal, interactive element to their time in Copenhagen. If you’re after a guided group experience with an English audio guide, this probably isn’t the right fit. But if you value independence and a cozy, story-driven adventure, it offers a charming way to enjoy Nyhavn.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen: Slotsholmen Royal History Self-Guided Audio Tour
- From Copenhagen: Malmö Self-Guided Tour With Transport Tickets
- Copenhagen: H.C. Andersen Self-Guided Tour With Storyhunt
- Copenhagen: Highlights Self-Guided City Walking Tour
- From Copenhagen: Malmö Self-Guided Tour W/ Transport Tickets
- Monstour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Danish Folk Legends
Practical Details for Travelers

- The activity is bookable online and can be started at your convenience, making it flexible around your sightseeing schedule.
- The meeting point is Maria’s Kiosk at Holbergsgade 9, a central location easy to access via public transportation.
- The tour duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
- It’s most suitable for travelers who can stand or walk for about two hours; comfortable shoes are advised.
- Since the mystery is only in Danish, consider your language comfort level before booking.
- The experience is private, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the intimacy and focus of the activity.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re traveling with children or a group that enjoys interactive storytelling, this is a fun, low-pressure activity. It’s also great if you want a flexible way to explore Nyhavn without the constraints of a guided tour. History enthusiasts who appreciate authentic stories will enjoy the real-life inspiration behind the mystery. On the flip side, if language barriers are a concern or you prefer a guided experience in English, you might look for other options.
This activity is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy mystery puzzles and are comfortable navigating in Danish or with visual clues. It’s a creative way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you want to avoid crowded group tours.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Copenhagen Self-Guided Murder Mystery Tour in Nyhavn offers a unique way to combine sightseeing with storytelling. It’s a playful, relaxed activity that allows you to go at your own pace, making it ideal for families or travelers seeking a more personal experience. The story’s authentic inspiration and the charming setting of Nyhavn make it memorable, especially for those who appreciate local history and a good puzzle.
While the language could be a barrier if Danish isn’t your forte, many find that the clues and visuals still make it worthwhile. The price point is reasonable given the flexibility and fun factor, and the ability to pause and take breaks adds to its appeal. If you’re prepared for a Danish-language adventure and love stories set in historic Copenhagen, this tour could add an unexpected and delightful twist to your visit.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, several reviews mention it as a family-friendly activity that kids can enjoy, especially with the option to do it at their own pace and take breaks.
Can I do the tour at any time? Yes, once you’ve purchased the materials online, you can start it whenever it suits you, offering maximum flexibility.
How long does the tour take? The approximate duration is 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how many breaks you take.
Is the mystery available in English? No, the story is only offered in Danish, which may limit accessibility for non-Danish speakers.
Where do I pick up the materials? The starting point is Maria’s Kiosk at Holbergsgade 9, in central Copenhagen.
What if I want to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
Embarking on this self-guided murder mystery in Nyhavn offers a charming, engaging way to experience Copenhagen’s vibrant harbor while solving an intriguing local story. Whether you’re a puzzle lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking an activity that lets you explore at your own pace, it’s worth considering for a memorable, low-stress adventure in Denmark’s capital.
More Guided Tours in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen: A guided walk for first-timers in the city
- Copenhagen: Guided Party Pub Crawl with 4 Shots and 1 Drink
- Guided SegwayTour of Copenhagen – 1 hour guided Tour
- Mop in the heart of Copenhagen – private guided tour in French
- Copenhagen: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Copenhagen: 2,5-Hour ‘Must See’ Bike Tour with a Local Guide
More Tours in Copenhagen
More Tour Reviews in Copenhagen
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Copenhagen we have recnetly reviewed
- Copenhagen: Private 3-Hour Famous Landmarks Photography Tour
- Copenhagen: Christmas Walking Tour with Treats and Drinks
- Copenhagen: True Crime Murder Mystery Walking Tour
- Copenhagen: Private Photoshoot in Iconic Places + Photo Gift
- The waterfront – Guided tour of Copenhagen along the waterfront in French
- Copenhagen: Old Town and Nyhavn Private Family Tour
- The Foodie Tour
- Urban Design and Livability E-bike Tour
- Full-Day Tour; Castle, Palace, Cathedral and Viking Ships
- Secret walking Food Tour Copenhagen
- Copenhagen: THE TUBE Copenhagen Entrance Ticket
- Copenhagen: Politically Incorrect Beer Tasting Walking Tour
