Groningen Self-Guided Detective Game: Solve a Murder Mystery

Two hours hunting clues through Groningen's landmarks and hidden corners

City Detective is a self-guided scavenger hunt game in Groningen where you solve a fictional murder case by following clues, eliminating suspects, and solving puzzles on your smartphone. You control the pace: start, pause, and explore at your own speed through the city centre. The game works for groups of up to 2, 4, or 6 players, and requires only a smartphone with internet access and the Qugato app.

The experience

A respected scientist has been found murdered at the University, and you're tasked with cracking the case. The game sends you through Groningen's city centre following clues and solving puzzles that reveal both iconic landmarks and quirky hidden gems. You move between locations at your own pace, eliminating suspects as you gather evidence and piece together the story. Everything happens through the Qugato app on your phone: no guide, no fixed schedule, no waiting for a group to catch up.

The self-guided format means you start whenever suits your day and pause whenever you want. If you need a break for coffee or to linger at a spot, the game pauses with you. Groups of up to 6 can share one game across multiple devices, so a family or team splits the detective work and compares notes as you move through the city. Fun facts and historical details about Groningen surface as you solve each puzzle, turning the hunt into a way to actually learn the place while you're playing.

What’s included

• Login credentials for up to 6 devices.
• access to the full City Detective Groningen game through the Qugato app.
• fun facts and historical information woven throughout the puzzles.

Options for this experience

3 options

Accommodates a maximum of 2 playersUp to 2 per booking · Guide in English or Dutch · No fixed timeTeam pass covering up to 2 players per team

Accommodates a maximum of 4 playersUp to 4 per booking · Guide in English or Dutch · No fixed timeTeam pass covering up to 4 players per team

Accommodates a maximum of 6 playersUp to 6 per booking · Guide in English or Dutch · No fixed timeTeam pass covering up to 6 players per team

You pick the guide language when booking.

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Dutch

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 13 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Qugato - City Game Adventures

Is this one for you?Choose the 2-player option if you want an intimate detective experience for a couple or close friends; pick 4 players for a small family or group that solves puzzles together; go with 6 players if you're bringing a larger team and want everyone to participate across multiple devices.

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Dutch.

Can I start the game whenever I want, or is there a set time?

City Detective has no fixed start time. You download the app, log in with your credentials, and begin whenever you're ready: morning, afternoon, or evening. You can pause and resume the game as many times as you need.

What do I need to play the game?

You need a smartphone with internet access and the Qugato app installed. One set of login credentials works across up to 6 devices in your group, so multiple people can play together on separate phones or share one device.

How many people can play together?

You can book for groups of up to 2, 4, or 6 players depending on which option you choose at checkout. Larger groups can split into multiple teams if you prefer.

What happens if I get stuck on a puzzle?

The game is designed to guide you through each puzzle, but the app includes hints and support built into the gameplay to help you move forward without getting completely stuck.

Do I need to know Groningen well to play?

No. The game introduces you to both famous landmarks and lesser-known corners of the city centre as you solve the case. You'll uncover facts and details about Groningen as part of the mystery itself.