Building 21 (Baťa Skyscraper) - Image 1
1 / 3

Building 21 Baťa Skyscraper Zlín

4.8
·1k reviews·, Czechia

Iconic modernist skyscraper offering free panoramic city views from its 16th-floor observation deck and a unique 'pater noster' lift.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for city views

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Building 21 (Baťa Skyscraper) - Image 1

Building 21 Baťa Skyscraper Zlín

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for city views

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic modernist skyscraper offering free panoramic city views from its 16th-floor observation deck and a unique 'pater noster' lift.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"The view from the top terrace was stunning. Definitely recommended for anyone visiting Zlín."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free City Views 🤩

The 16th-floor viewing terrace is free to access for stunning city panoramas.

Ride the Pater Noster 🔄

Don't miss the chance to ride the historic 'pater noster' lift inside the building.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

16th Floor Observation Deck

16th Floor Observation Deck

16th Floor

Breathtaking panoramic views of Zlín from this free-access viewing platform.

Historic 'Pater Noster' Lift

Historic 'Pater Noster' Lift

Interior

Experience a ride in this unique, continuously moving paternoster elevator.

Ground Floor Exhibition

Ground Floor Exhibition

Ground Floor

Discover the intriguing history and ideology of the Bata firm.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Ascend for City Views

Head to the 16th-floor observation deck for panoramic city vistas. Access is free, and a cafe offers refreshments. Don't miss the historic 'pater noster' lift!

Architectural Gem

This pre-WWII skyscraper is an icon of modernism and functionalism. Explore the ground floor exhibition for insights into its history and the Bata firm's ideology.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for city views
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour city glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#zacinatoutebe #utb #universitylife #university #tomasbata #zlincity #zlin #foryou #fyp #friends
@utbzlin
67 likes • 7.5K views

Free City Views 🤩

The 16th-floor viewing terrace is free to access for stunning city panoramas. Reddit

Ride the Pater Noster 🔄

Don't miss the chance to ride the historic 'pater noster' lift inside the building. Reddit

Cafe with a View ☕

Enjoy coffee or a drink on the terrace while admiring the Zlín cityscape. Reddit

Architectural Insights 💡

The ground floor exhibition offers fascinating details about the building's history and the Bata firm. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Free City Views 🤩

The 16th-floor viewing terrace is free to access for stunning city panoramas. Reddit

Ride the Pater Noster 🔄

Don't miss the chance to ride the historic 'pater noster' lift inside the building. Reddit

Cafe with a View ☕

Enjoy coffee or a drink on the terrace while admiring the Zlín cityscape. Reddit

Architectural Insights 💡

The ground floor exhibition offers fascinating details about the building's history and the Bata firm. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Building 21 for its stunning, free-to-access 16th-floor viewing terrace offering breathtaking city panoramas. The unique 'pater noster' lift and the informative ground floor exhibition on the Bata firm are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects of the visit. Some minor points of feedback relate to the limited scope of the internal exhibition.

"The building has a viewing terrace that is free to visit. With the help of the security guard, we found the elevators that go up to the roof. From there you get a beautiful view of the city. Definitely recommended for anyone visiting Zlín."

Dundee

"Even without a guide it provided enough to exceed our expectations. The exhibition on the ground floor is smaller, but very informative. The 8th floor was mostly about the history and ideology of the firm which was also very intriguing. And the view from the top terrace was stunning."

Peter Holländer

"Mrakodrap is an unusual skyscraper built just before the WW2. At the top there's a terrace offering a breathtaking view onto Zlin. You can go there, order a cup of coffee and admire the city from above. The building is an icon of medernism and functionalism. It's a must-see place for every architecture lover. If you enter it, use the "pater noster" lift."

Blazej Hudzikowski

What People Like

Stunning city views
Free observation deck
Historic 'pater noster' lift

What People Dislike

Limited exhibition scope

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Building 21, also known as the Baťa Skyscraper, is centrally located in Zlín. It's easily accessible by public transport within the city. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring Zlín's downtown area. TikTok

While specific parking details can vary, there are typically public parking options available in the city center near the skyscraper. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or use a parking app for real-time availability. Reddit

Yes, Building 21 is within walking distance of many other key Zlín landmarks. Its central location makes it easy to incorporate into a walking tour of the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the viewing terrace on the 16th floor is free to visit. There might be a small charge for specific exhibitions or guided tours, but general access to the observation deck is complimentary. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but the viewing terrace is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Access to the viewing terrace is free. The ground floor exhibition may have a nominal fee, but the primary attraction, the city view, is accessible without charge. Reddit

Since the viewing terrace is free, advance booking is not typically required. For any special exhibitions or events, it's best to check their specific ticketing policies. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you can explore the ground floor exhibition detailing the history and ideology of the Bata firm. The main draw is the 16th-floor observation deck offering stunning city views. Don't forget to experience the unique 'pater noster' lift! Reddit+1

The skyscraper is generally accessible, and elevators are available to reach the upper floors. The viewing terrace provides a great vantage point for all visitors. Reddit

The 'pater noster' lift is a unique, continuously moving elevator system where open cabins travel up and down. It's a historical and fun way to experience vertical transport within the building. Reddit

While not always advertised, sometimes security guards or staff can provide insights. For more in-depth historical context, consider looking for local Zlín tours that might include the skyscraper. Reddit

The 16th floor is highly recommended for its observation deck and stunning city views. The ground floor exhibition also provides valuable historical context. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located on the viewing terrace, allowing you to enjoy refreshments while taking in the city views. Reddit

The cafe typically offers coffee, other beverages, and light snacks. It's a great spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere after exploring the skyscraper. Reddit

Being in the city center, Building 21 is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines. You'll find plenty of choices within a short walking distance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 16th-floor observation deck offers incredible panoramic shots of Zlín. The unique architecture of the skyscraper itself, both exterior and interior (especially the 'pater noster' lift), also makes for great photos. TikTok

Yes, photography is generally allowed on the viewing terrace. Capture the expansive cityscapes and the surrounding landscape. Reddit

Daytime offers clear visibility for city views. Late afternoon, during the golden hour, can provide beautiful warm light for photography. Reddit

While the viewing terrace is open, some areas within the building, especially private offices or specific exhibition sections, might have photography restrictions. Always be mindful of signage. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Building 21 offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The free viewing terrace on the 16th floor is a hit with kids, providing a sense of adventure as they look out over the city like they're on top of the world. The historic 'pater noster' lift is also a novelty that children often find fascinating and fun to ride. Reddit

While the ground floor exhibition might be more geared towards adults, the visual aspect of the skyscraper and the expansive views can still capture a child's imagination. It's a great opportunity to talk about buildings, heights, and how cities are structured. Plus, the cafe on the terrace offers a chance for a family treat with a view. Reddit

🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts

For lovers of architecture, Building 21 is a pilgrimage site. This icon of modernism and functionalism showcases innovative design principles from the pre-WWII era. The building's clean lines, utilitarian aesthetic, and its role in the planned industrial city of Zlín are all points of significant interest. TikTok

Exploring the ground floor exhibition provides crucial context on the Bata firm's vision and its architectural philosophy. Don't miss the chance to ride the 'pater noster' lift, a rare surviving example of this unique elevator technology. The overall experience offers a deep dive into the architectural heritage that defines Zlín. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Building 21 presents a fantastic canvas for photographers. The 16th-floor observation deck is your prime spot for sweeping cityscape photography, especially during golden hour for dramatic lighting. Capture the urban sprawl, the distinct architecture of Zlín, and the surrounding natural beauty. Reddit

Beyond the views, the architectural details of the skyscraper itself are highly photogenic. The exterior lines, the interior spaces, and particularly the 'pater noster' lift offer unique compositional opportunities. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to showcase the building's modernist design. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Significance of Building 21

Building 21, often referred to as the Baťa Skyscraper, is a significant example of modernist and functionalist architecture in Zlín. Constructed just before World War II, it was designed to embody the efficiency and forward-thinking ethos of the Bata shoe company. Its sleek lines, emphasis on utility, and innovative design elements were groundbreaking for their time. The building's structure and aesthetic reflect the broader architectural trends of the interwar period, prioritizing form following function. TikTok

Visitors can appreciate this architectural heritage through the ground floor exhibition, which delves into the history and ideology behind the Bata firm and its impact on Zlín. The building itself, with its distinctive silhouette, stands as a testament to industrial design and urban planning. For architecture enthusiasts, it's a must-see landmark that offers a glimpse into a pivotal era of design and corporate influence. Reddit

The 'pater noster' lift is another unique feature that highlights the building's innovative spirit. This continuously moving elevator system, while less common today, was a marvel of engineering and efficiency, perfectly aligning with the functionalist principles that guided the skyscraper's design. Experiencing this historical lift adds a tangible dimension to understanding the building's architectural context. Reddit

Experiencing the Views from the Top

The 16th-floor observation deck of Building 21 is a major draw for visitors, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Zlín. This free-to-access terrace provides a breathtaking perspective of the city, allowing you to survey its layout, landmarks, and surrounding landscape. It's an ideal spot for photography and for gaining a comprehensive understanding of Zlín's urban fabric. Reddit

Many visitors recommend visiting during the daytime for the clearest views, while others suggest late afternoon to catch the warm glow of the setting sun. The experience is enhanced by the presence of a cafe on the terrace, where you can enjoy a coffee or a drink while soaking in the scenery. This combination of stunning vistas and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a memorable part of any visit. Reddit

Beyond the visual spectacle, the view from the skyscraper offers a unique way to connect with the city's history. You can see how the Bata company's influence shaped the urban development and imagine the bustling city life from decades past. It’s a moment of reflection and appreciation for the city’s evolution. Reddit

You may also like