Free walking tours in Utrera and what to see

Must-sees

Utrera is a town in the Seville countryside, about 30 kilometres from Seville, with a large historic centre full of churches. The 15th-century Gothic parish church of Santa María de la Mesa stands out for its tower of about 60 metres and its monumental Puerta del Perdón. Not far away is the church of Santiago, also Gothic with Baroque additions, and beside it the Carmelite convent. The castle, on a hill, keeps its parade ground, where concerts and events are held.

Strolling around the centre is part of the visit: the Plaza del Altozano, the Plaza de la Constitución and the Plaza de Santa Ana are full of life, bars and confectioners. Here you must try mostachones, Utrera's most famous sweet. Outside the centre is the Consolación sanctuary, dedicated to the patron saint and a place of pilgrimage. Utrera is also one of the cradles of flamenco, and the Potaje Gitano, in late June, is one of its longest-running festivals.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free walking tours in Utrera. The most practical approach is to explore the historic centre on your own, as the main monuments are close together, and check with the town council whether guided visits to the churches or the castle are scheduled. If you're staying in Seville, Utrera is an easy half-day trip by Cercanías train and fits well into a route around other towns in the countryside.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough to see Santa María de la Mesa, the church of Santiago, the castle and the central squares, with a stop at a confectioner's. If you want to visit the Consolación sanctuary and have a relaxed lunch, allow the whole day. The liveliest dates are Holy Week, the Potaje Gitano in June and the Consolación Fair, around 8 September.

Where to stay

If you stay in Utrera, look for accommodation in the historic centre, between Santa María de la Mesa and the Plaza del Altozano, so you can get around on foot and go out for tapas at night. Accommodation is limited, so during the fair or festival book early. The easiest alternative is to stay in Seville and come by train, with short, frequent journeys.