
Building 21 Baťa Skyscraper Zlín
Iconic modernist skyscraper offering free panoramic city views from its 16th-floor observation deck and a unique 'pater noster' lift.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best light for city views

Building 21 Baťa Skyscraper Zlín
Best Time
Best light for city views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic modernist skyscraper offering free panoramic city views from its 16th-floor observation deck and a unique 'pater noster' lift.
"The view from the top terrace was stunning. Definitely recommended for anyone visiting Zlín."

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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

16th Floor Observation Deck
16th Floor
Breathtaking panoramic views of Zlín from this free-access viewing platform.

Historic 'Pater Noster' Lift
Interior
Experience a ride in this unique, continuously moving paternoster elevator.

Ground Floor Exhibition
Ground Floor
Discover the intriguing history and ideology of the Bata firm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ascend for City Views
Architectural Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Cafe with a View ☕
Enjoy coffee or a drink on the terrace while admiring the Zlín cityscape.
Architectural Insights 💡
The ground floor exhibition offers fascinating details about the building's history and the Bata firm.
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Cafe with a View ☕
Enjoy coffee or a drink on the terrace while admiring the Zlín cityscape.
Architectural Insights 💡
The ground floor exhibition offers fascinating details about the building's history and the Bata firm.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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!
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.
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.
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.
The 16th floor is highly recommended for its observation deck and stunning city views. The ground floor exhibition also provides valuable historical context.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located on the viewing terrace, allowing you to enjoy refreshments while taking in the city views.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, photography is generally allowed on the viewing terrace. Capture the expansive cityscapes and the surrounding landscape.
Daytime offers clear visibility for city views. Late afternoon, during the golden hour, can provide beautiful warm light for photography.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
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.
📸 Photographers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Significance of Building 21
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.
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.
Experiencing the Views from the Top
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.
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.


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