If you want to solve a murder mystery in Gamla stan, you need to have the right materials with you and know where to start. The mystery hunt is self-guided: you go between real locations, examine clues, and try to understand a fictional murder case together. This guide will help you prepare for the visit without revealing clues or solutions. It works just as well for a group of friends as for a family outing or an activity for two.
The mystery in this guide
In this guide
Start at Yttre Borggården
The Mystery in Gamla Stan begins at Yttre Borggården by the Royal Palace in Stockholm. Share this starting point with the whole group before you meet. Deciding to meet somewhere in Gamla stan might sound easy, but it is unnecessary to start by looking for each other in different alleys.
Once you arrive, read the introduction and then follow the order in the booklet. It is the material that shows how the game route connects. A general tourist map can help you find the start, but it does not replace the mystery's map and instructions.
The booklet and the mobile phone have different tasks
When you order online, you will receive a physical booklet that needs to arrive before the outing. It contains the story, map, and tasks. Check the current delivery information on the product page and order with plenty of time if you have a specific day in mind.
On the mobile phone, you use the Archive when the booklet refers to it. There, you follow the instructions to enter answers and move forward in the investigation. Bring a charged mobile phone with internet access, preferably a pen and something to keep the paper dry in the rain. Being able to open the Archive does not mean you can play without the booklet.
Investigate together instead of just following along
What distinguishes a murder mystery from a regular walk is that you have a common question to solve. Read the task aloud before you start looking. Then let everyone describe what they actually saw, before the group decides which theory seems reasonable.
Take turns holding the booklet, following the map, and using the mobile phone. If one person does all three things, it is easy for the others to become spectators. You do not need to be used to mystery games; the important thing is that everyone can follow the information. In our guide to murder mysteries for beginners, there are more ways to get started together.
Plan for cobblestones, weather, and breaks
The narrow streets and cobblestones of Gamla stan make comfortable walking shoes a good choice. Choose clothes that allow you to stand still and read as well, not just for walking. Daylight makes it easier when you need to look at details and use the booklet.
If anyone in the group has special requirements regarding terrain or accessibility, you should ask us about the route before purchasing. We do not want a general description of the neighborhood to be interpreted as a guarantee of accessibility. Also, leave room for the next booking, so that a discussion about a suspect does not become a stressful moment.
Distinguish between the murder mystery and the rest of the visit
The mystery is a game with a fictional story, not an account of a real crime or a guided historical tour. You play it yourselves and do not get a guide who goes with the group. You plan and pay for fika, dinner, and visits to other businesses separately.
If you want to do more on the same day, you can read our guide to an outing in Gamla stan. If you first need to understand the activity itself, there is an explanation of how a city mystery works. When the format feels right, you will find the current booklet and product information on the product page for The Mystery in Gamla Stan.
Local visiting information
Check the current opening hours and visiting conditions for each respective business.
Solve the murder mystery directly on your mobile phone
Want to avoid waiting for a booklet? The mobile version of The Mystery in Gamla Stan has the game material in the web browser and is delivered with a code and game link via email. You still play on site in Gamla stan in Stockholm. Read more in our guides:
The mystery in this guide
Frequently asked questions
Is this a real murder case from Gamla stan?
No. The mystery is a fictional murder case. Historical inspiration and real-life settings do not make the story non-fiction.
Can we play the murder mystery at home before we visit Stockholm?
The game is designed to be played on location. You need the right booklet and the real-life setting, as well as the Archive on your phone, to follow the setup.
Does someone need to read the solution before we start?
No. You play and solve it together using the instructions in the materials. No one in the group needs to sacrifice their own experience to be the game master.
Where does the murder mystery start in Gamla stan?
The starting point is the Outer Courtyard at the Royal Palace in Stockholm. Follow the current product information and the instructions in the booklet, not your own list of sights.
Do we have to compete against each other to play?
No. You can investigate and solve the case as a group. Take turns with the materials and let everyone explain their observations before deciding how you want to answer.
Can we combine the murder mystery with other activities in Gamla stan?
Yes, plan them as separate parts before or after the game. Food, travel, and other admissions are not included in the booklet, and any bookings need to allow enough time for your own pace of play.