Things To Do
in Houilles
Houilles is a charming suburban town located in the northwestern suburbs of Paris, France. It has a rich history dating back to the medieval times and features a mix of traditional and modern architecture. The town is known for its peaceful residential neighborhoods, green spaces, and proximity to the Seine River.
With easy access to public transportation, including trains and buses, residents enjoy a convenient commute to Paris and other nearby areas.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- â Coffee: $2 - $4
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful stroll through Parc des Belles Feuilles, enjoying the greenery and fresh air. Grab a coffee at a nearby café while watching the world wake up.
Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and homemade goods. Take your time to chat with local vendors for an authentic French experience.
Dine at a family-friendly bistro offering classic French dishes. Enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the charming streets of Houilles.
Visit the local art museum to appreciate contemporary artworks and installations. Engage with the exhibits to deepen your understanding of local culture.
Explore the historic neighborhoods, stopping at galleries and boutiques. Enjoy lunch at a café, trying a traditional French pastry.
Catch a performance at a local theater or community center. Relish dinner at a wine bar and sample regional wines.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Paris, providing easy access to the capital's amenities and job opportunities.
- A charming town with a rich history and a number of historical buildings and parks.
- Well-connected by public transport, making commuting convenient.
- A family-friendly environment with good local schools and community services.
- Diverse recreational activities available, including sports facilities and cultural events.
- Cost of living can be high due to its close location to Paris.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Public transport can become crowded during peak hours.
- Smaller selection of shopping and dining options compared to Paris.
- May experience noise pollution from nearby urban areas.
Best Activities in Houilles
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the beautiful Parc Charles de Gaulle, perfect for a picnic with family or friends.
Take a scenic bike ride along the Seine River to enjoy the picturesque views and fresh air.
Explore the vibrant outdoor markets in Houilles to experience the local culture and find unique gems.
Tours
Uncover the best of Houilles with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Houilles
Visit one of these nice places.
A park offering a great viewpoint of the city and the Seine River.
Scenic walkways along the Seine offering picturesque views.
Bridge providing beautiful views of the river and surrounding area.
Offers a panoramic view of the city from its elevated position.
Food in Houilles
Houilles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic French dish of duck leg slow-cooked in its own fat, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. It is typically served with roasted potatoes or beans. One of the best places to enjoy this dish is at La Maison des Canaris.
Must-Try!
A famous French upside-down pastry, usually made with caramelized apples and a buttery, flaky crust. Try the exquisite Tarte Tatin at Patisserie Paul.
A rustic dish of chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, and onions, providing a comforting and rich flavor. Le Jardin du Moulin offers an exceptional rendition of this classic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Houilles better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling market offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and an assortment of local specialties. Visitors can sample freshly prepared crepes, savory galettes, and other tantalizing street food treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Houilles, it's customary to greet others with a handshake, particularly in formal or business settings. It's also polite to use titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when addressing people, especially if you are meeting them for the first time.
When dining with others in Houilles, it's important to wait for the host to give the signal before starting to eat. It's also polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to keep pace with the rest of the diners. Additionally, it's customary to say 'Bon appétit' before beginning the meal.
In Houilles, respecting personal space is important. It's common to maintain a reasonable distance when conversing with others, and physical contact such as hugging or kissing on the cheek is reserved for closer acquaintances. It's also important to be mindful of others' personal boundaries.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Houilles with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Houilles
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill for good service at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tipping at hotels is also appreciated for exceptional service.
Cash is widely accepted in France, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. When using a card, it's important to have a chip and pin as many establishments do not accept magnetic stripe cards. Contactless payments are also becoming increasingly popular. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases and in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Houilles.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Houilles, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a good season for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenery.
Summer (June to August) brings warm weather and longer days, making it perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying festivals and events in the area.
Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant weather and the beautiful colors of fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and taking in the picturesque landscapes.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly in Houilles, but it's a festive time with holiday markets and a cozy atmosphere. It's also a good time for indoor attractions and cultural experiences.
Houilles at Night
Hiking in Houilles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring walking trails and scenic views, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
This expansive forest offers numerous hiking paths amidst lush greenery, ideal for a day of outdoor exploration.
A regional park with picturesque hills, valleys, and trails, suitable for both hiking and biking activities.
A large park on the eastern edge of Paris, featuring varied trails and beautiful landscapes, perfect for a nature getaway.
A serene area with walking paths along the BiĂšvre river, providing a peaceful hiking experience in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Houilles through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Houilles by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Houilles, Charles de Gaulle Airport is the largest international airport in France and one of the busiest in Europe.
Located about 20 kilometers south of Houilles, Orly Airport primarily serves domestic and European flights but also offers international service.
Situated approximately 70 kilometers north of Houilles, Beauvais-Tillé Airport serves as a base for several low-cost airlines and is primarily used for budget international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group, consisting of individuals who hold French citizenship and are native to the region.
Individuals residing in Houilles who are not French citizens, including those from various European and non-European countries.
Households consisting of parents and their children, representing a significant portion of the population.
Older adults, typically aged 65 and over, who make up an important demographic in terms of social services and community support.
Individuals typically in their 20s and 30s who are starting their careers and may be living in rental housing or shared accommodations.
Individuals enrolled in educational institutions, potentially including high school and higher education students.
The Soul of Houilles
Discover the essence of Houilles through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Houilles, with numerous local clubs and a strong community involvement.
Rugby has a significant following in Houilles, with local teams participating in various regional leagues.
Athletics is widely practiced, with facilities for track and field events attracting many enthusiasts.
Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Houilles, with several courts available for public use.
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth and adults alike, with local clubs and facilities available.
Swimming is a favored activity in Houilles, with access to public pools and swimming clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Houilles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional French cuisine can be meat-centric, many restaurants in Houilles offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as vegetable tarts, ratatouille, and inventive salads. La Petite Recette is a great choice for a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
Those with gluten sensitivities will find accommodating options at several establishments in Houilles. Le Grain de Sel offers a selection of gluten-free pastries and breads, ensuring that all guests can savor the local flavors.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Houilles with these cultural adventures.
