Things To Do
in Trets
Trets is a charming hilltop town in Provence, perched above the plains and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Its narrow cobbled streets, medieval ramparts, and sunlit stone houses create a timeless Provençal atmosphere. The town acts as a gateway to the Sainte-Victoire foothills and the broader Aix-en-Provence region, offering easy access to countryside adventures and village markets.
Life in Trets blends relaxed rural charm with culture, history, and scenic viewpoints that reward wandering visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in the quaint village of Trets by enjoying a fresh pastry from a local bakery. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, marveling at the charming old buildings and vibrant bougainvillea. Visit the historic church to appreciate its unique architecture and serene atmosphere.
After lunch at a nearby bistro, head to the local market where you can find artisan products and fresh produce. Engage with local vendors to learn about their crafts, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. Spend some time relaxing at a café, sipping on local wine while watching daily life unfold around you.
As the sun sets, indulge in a traditional Provencal dinner at a family-run restaurant. Savor the rich flavors of regional dishes paired with a glass of rosé. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the village as the streets are bathed in soft light.
Pack a hearty breakfast before setting out to hike the iconic Sainte-Victoire Mountain. The early morning sun will greet you as you navigate the stunning trails that showcase breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the region.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the mountain with panoramic views as your backdrop. Afterward, continue exploring the trails, stopping at various lookout points to capture the scenic vistas with your camera. The cool afternoon breeze provides a pleasant relief after a morning of hiking.
Return to Trets for a relaxing evening at a wine bar, where you can sample local wines that celebrate the terroir of the area. Engage in conversation with fellow wine enthusiasts as you unwind from your adventurous day. Embrace the tranquil ambiance of the village as you recount your hiking tales.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🍷Glass of wine (local) | $4-8 |
| 🧀Local cheese or groceries | $5-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Provençal town with a historic core
- Access to vineyards, olive groves, and scenic hiking nearby
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some services may feel small-town or seasonal
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Trets
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of Trets and the surrounding valley from the town ramparts, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Cobbled streets lined with stone houses and flower boxes, perfect for atmospheric street photography.
Historic church with a simple exterior and a charming interior; good for architectural shots and quiet interior photography.
Sun-kissed rows of vines on the approach to Trets, ideal for golden-hour landscape shots.
Food in Trets
Trets Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A garlicky mayonnaise served with boiled cod and a medley of potatoes and vegetables; a Provençal staple available in many bistros.
Must-Try!
A slow-braised beef stew cooked with red wine, garlic, onions, and herbs; rich, comforting, and widely found in local eateries.
A vegetable medley of zucchini, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs; a bright, vegetarian-friendly dish often served as a side or main.
A olive-purée spread with capers and anchovies, typically enjoyed with bread or as part of a grazing plate.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively weekly market where you can sample olives, cheeses, honey, pastries, and seasonal produce; a great place to taste local flavors and mingle with locals.
Small shops in the old town offering local olive oils, olives, and regional wines to taste on the spot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour when entering shops or greeting people; use polite phrases in French to show respect.
Food is enjoyed at a relaxed pace; wait for everyone to be served before starting and keep voices at a considerate level in public spaces.
Respect quiet residential areas, especially in the evenings; avoid loud behavior near churches or markets during services.
Safety
Tipping in Trets
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, a service charge is often included. If not included, a tip of 5-10% for good service is customary in restaurants; for cafés or casual spots, rounding up is common.
Cards (including contactless) are widely accepted in Trets. Cash is useful for markets and small vendors. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make walking pleasant; markets begin to fill with fresh produce and herbs.
Warm to hot days with bright light; plan early morning or late afternoon activities and enjoy cool wines and shaded courtyards in the evenings.
Harvest season brings rich colors in vineyards and olive groves; comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploring.
Mild but cooler days with occasional rain; town remains lively with indoor dining and fireside cafés.
Trets at Night
Hiking in Trets
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic limestone ridges offering varied trails and panoramic valley views just a short drive from Trets.
Relaxed hikes among vineyards with opportunities to sample local wines along the way.
Airports
How to reach Trets by plane.
Main international gateway for the region, located near Marseille; roughly 40-60 minutes by road depending on traffic. Connects Trets with major destinations and international flights.
Smaller regional option in the broader region; feasible for certain destinations, but require longer transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and working residents; many long-standing inhabitants in the village.
Tourists drawn to Provençal scenery, markets, and rural charm; seasonal fluctuations in crowds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Valued activity in the Provençal countryside, with routes through vineyards and hills.
Popular in the Sainte-Victoire area and surrounding hills, offering varied terrain and scenic views.
Common social pastime in town squares and cafés, especially in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trets.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Provençal dishes can be adapted to vegetarian preferences. Look for ratatouille, salads with local vegetables, and olive-oil–based dishes. When in doubt, ask for no meat stock or fish in stews.
Many markets offer fresh produce and gluten-free options; choose grilled vegetables, salads, and meat or fish without breading. Notify staff about gluten intolerance and request non-bread sides when available.
Ratatouille, olive oil–based dips like tapenade, and vegetable dishes are commonly vegan-friendly. Verify sauces and broths to avoid hidden animal products.