Houttil
Houttil: Alkmaar's vibrant street blending unique shops, historic sites, and local eateries. A must-visit for collectors and history buffs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Houttil
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Houttil: Alkmaar's vibrant street blending unique shops, historic sites, and local eateries. A must-visit for collectors and history buffs.
"Discover a street where history meets modern treasures, from rare cards to delicious fries!"
🎯 Shop for Collectibles
Explore Collectable World for rare Pokémon and Dragon Ball cards.
🍟 Savor Local Fries
Don't miss the renowned fries at De Waag.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Collectable World
Houttil 64
A haven for trading card enthusiasts, offering Pokémon, Dragon Ball Super, and more.
+1
De Waag
Houttil 14
Historic building housing a popular eatery, known for its delicious fries.
Former Brewery De Boom
Houttil
A glimpse into Alkmaar's brewing past, now home to a tasting room and waterside terrace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Houttil's Charm
+1Discovering Alkmaar's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Shop for Collectibles
Explore Collectable World for rare Pokémon and Dragon Ball cards.
🍟 Savor Local Fries
Don't miss the renowned fries at De Waag.
🚶♀️ Explore Historic Sites
Discover the history of former breweries like De Boom.
🛍️ Browse Unique Boutiques
Check out HAVE2HAVE for fashion.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Shop for Collectibles
Explore Collectable World for rare Pokémon and Dragon Ball cards.
🍟 Savor Local Fries
Don't miss the renowned fries at De Waag.
🚶♀️ Explore Historic Sites
Discover the history of former breweries like De Boom.
🛍️ Browse Unique Boutiques
Check out HAVE2HAVE for fashion.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Houttil is appreciated for its unique shops, particularly for collectors, and its historical charm. Visitors enjoy the local eateries, especially for their renowned fries. Some areas may experience crowds, and occasional incidents like fires can impact specific establishments.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Houttil is centrally located in Alkmaar. You can easily reach it by public transport, with bus stops nearby. If driving, look for parking garages in the city center.
Most of Houttil is accessible, but some older buildings might have limited access. It's advisable to check specific shop or restaurant accessibility beforehand.
Walking is the best way to experience Houttil. The VVV tourist office at De Waaggebouw can provide maps for self-guided tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Houttil is a public street, so no tickets are required to walk around and explore the shops and exterior of buildings.
Shop hours vary, but most are open from around 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with some extended hours on Sundays. It's best to check individual store hours online.
While walking the street is free, some attractions like museums or specific tours might have entrance fees. The former brewery De Boom has a tasting room which you can visit.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Houttil offers a diverse range of shops, including collectible card stores like Collectable World, fashion boutiques like HAVE2HAVE, and toy stores like Wurmpy.
You can find dining options like De Waag for fries and other dishes, and the former Nepalese/Indian restaurant Deurali (though it experienced a fire).
De Waag is famous for its excellent French fries, making it a must-try local delicacy.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic architecture, especially the former brewery De Boom, and the lively shop fronts. De Waag also offers picturesque views.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from the shop staff before taking extensive photos, especially in stores like Collectable World.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For older kids and teens, Collectable World is a must-visit, with its wide array of trading cards that can provide hours of entertainment. +1 While exploring, keep an eye out for the historic buildings that can spark imagination about the past. Remember that Houttil is a walking street, so comfortable shoes are recommended for little ones. 🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
Collectors will be in paradise at Collectable World, hunting for rare trading cards. +1 For a taste of Alkmaar, a stop at De Waag for their famous fries is essential. The street offers a good mix of retail therapy and culinary delights, making it a satisfying destination for those who enjoy browsing and tasting local flavors.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Street of Collectibles and History
+1 Another notable shop is HAVE2HAVE, a fashion boutique. These establishments contribute to Houttil's reputation as a destination for niche interests and trendy finds.The street also echoes Alkmaar's past. The former brewery De Boom stands as a testament to the city's historical brewing industry, now housing a tasting room and a terrace by the water.
This historical significance is a key draw for visitors interested in local heritage. The De Waag building, a historic landmark, not only adds to the street's charm but also houses a well-regarded eatery famous for its fries. The presence of these historical elements makes Houttil more than just a shopping street; it's a journey through Alkmaar's evolving identity.While exploring, visitors should be mindful of the street's dynamic nature. A fire once affected the area, impacting restaurants like Deurali.
However, the resilience of the street is evident in its continued offerings and the vibrant community spirit, as highlighted by the VVV tourist office's role in providing maps for self-guided tours. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit