Almshouses are typically Dutch and date back to the 14th century. They were usually founded by rich, childless citizens. The almshouses were primarily inhabited by Reformed, Mennonite, Lutheran or Catholic women. It is possible to take a walking tour along many of these centuries-old almshouses in a number of Dutch cities.

Leiden
Leiden is sometimes called the 'City of Almshouses'. The old city center boasts 35 almshouses, each of which are green oases of peace and quiet. The 2-hour walking tour Along Leiden Almshouses is offered through the VVV (Tourist Information Office) in Leiden.

Haarlem
Haarlem competes with Leiden for the title 'City of Almshouses'. There are 20 remaining almshouses that can be visited in Haarlem. The booklet City Compass is sold at the VVV (Tourist Information Office) in Haarlem and contains two walking tours, complete with photographs and comprehensive background information on the city. These walking tours also take you along the almshouses. The walks take around 1½ hours.

Groningen
Groningen also has a large number of almshouses. Discover the almshouses of this northern Holland university town during the Groningen City Walk. The route map for this 2-hour walk can be obtained free of charge at the VVV (Tourist Information Office) in Groningen.

Dordrecht
Dordrecht has several romantic almshouses. The City Walk Through Dordrecht walking tour takes you along the loveliest spots in town, including centuries-old almshouses and other peaceful, green places. The route map for this 1½-hour walk can be obtained at the VVV (Tourist Information Office) in Dordrecht.

Utrecht
The almshouses in the old city center of Utrecht are complexes made up of small residences. They arealso called 'chambers', since they only comprise a single room (plus a kitchenette, bathroom and attic). They are usually built around a square, though in Utrecht they stand in rows along the street. The tour takes about 1½ hours. The route map can be obtained from the VVV (Tourist Information Office) in Utrecht.