Many people who visit Batman’s Alley (Beco do Batman) walk right past another graffiti-covered lane just a few minutes away without ever knowing it. It is Beco do Aprendiz (“Apprentice’s Alley”), one of Vila Madalena’s secrets, with walls painted by Brazilian and international artists and far fewer tourists.
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Where it is
Beco do Aprendiz is in Vila Madalena, near Rua Belmiro Braga and Rua Ignácio Pereira da Rocha, a short walk from Batman’s Alley. Since there is no big sign and no line of tourists, it is worth opening the map on your phone and searching for “Beco do Aprendiz”.
The history
According to São Paulo street art guides, the lane was a run-down spot in the early 2000s. It was revitalized by a local NGO, which invited artists to paint the walls. A popular explanation for the name is that this is where artists who did not yet have space at Batman’s Alley used to paint: the “apprentices” (aprendizes). Today the walls feature works by well-known graffiti names.
Why it is worth a visit
- Fewer people: great for photos without waiting in line.
- Different art: styles you will not see at Batman’s Alley.
- It is on the way: you can combine both alleys and the Patápio Staircase (Escadaria do Patápio) in the same walk.
Tips
- Go during the day. The lane is narrow and quiet.
- Respect the residents: it is a residential area.
- Want to visit with a guide? Vila Madalena graffiti tours usually stop there. See guided tours of Batman’s Alley.
Where to stay to enjoy the neighborhood
To enjoy the walk at a relaxed pace, without rushing to catch the metro back, it is worth staying in the area. See hotels and guesthouses in Vila Madalena on Booking.com and hotels in Pinheiros, or read the guide Where to stay near Batman’s Alley. (Affiliate links: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)