Zlin

Zlin is a city unlike any other in the Czech Republic. While most Czech towns boast medieval squares and gothic churches, Zlin is a monument to 20th-century modernism and industrial ambition. The city's identity is inextricably linked to Tomas Bata, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed a small shoemaking business into a global empire. To accommodate his growing workforce, Bata commissioned leading architects to design a functionalist garden city. The result is a striking grid of standardized red-brick buildings, factories, and public facilities, all interspersed with abundant green spaces.

Today, Zlin is a vibrant university city that proudly preserves its industrial heritage while looking toward the future. The former factory complex, known as the Bata Institute (Building 14|15), has been revitalized into a cultural hub housing the Museum of Southeast Moravia and the Regional Gallery. Beyond architecture, Zlin is famous for its annual International Film Festival for Children and Youth, the oldest of its kind in the world. Just a short distance from the city center lies the Zlin Zoo and Lešná Chateau, offering a perfect day trip for families and nature enthusiasts.

Reasons to Visit

• Unique Architecture: Experience the world's most complete example of a functionalist garden city.
• Bata Heritage: Learn about the fascinating history of the Bata Shoe Company and its global impact.
• Zlin Zoo: Visit one of the top-rated zoological parks in Central Europe, featuring continent-themed exhibits.
• Film History: Discover Zlin's rich legacy in animation and children's cinema at the local film studios and annual festival.
• Gateway to Wallachia: Use Zlin as a base to explore the traditional folklore, wooden architecture, and rolling hills of the Moravian Wallachia region.

Things to Avoid

• Expecting a Medieval Old Town: Zlin's charm lies in its 20th-century modernism; do not expect cobblestone streets and gothic cathedrals.
• Skipping the Elevator Office: Don't miss the chance to see the famous mobile office inside the elevator of Building 21.
• Ignoring Public Transport: The city is spread out; utilize the efficient trolleybus network to save time and energy.
• Forgetting Cash: While cards are widely used, smaller vendors at markets or rural areas may only accept Czech Koruna.

Local Transportation Tips

Zlin boasts an efficient and environmentally friendly public transportation system, primarily consisting of trolleybuses and standard buses. The network connects the city center with residential areas, the train station in neighboring Otrokovice, and attractions like the Zlin Zoo. Tickets can be purchased at yellow vending machines at major stops, via SMS (if you have a local SIM), or through a mobile app. Remember to validate your paper ticket immediately upon boarding. For exploring the immediate city center and the Bata factory complex, walking is highly recommended due to the pedestrian-friendly layout.

Travel Etiquette

• Tipping: It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and cafes if the service was good. Usually, you tell the waiter the total amount you want to pay when they bring the bill.
• Greetings: Always say 'Dobrý den' (Good day) when entering a small shop, cafe, or elevator, and 'Na shledanou' (Goodbye) when leaving.
• Personal Space: Czechs value their personal space and may appear reserved initially, but are generally polite and helpful.
• Escalator Etiquette: Stand on the right side of escalators to allow people in a hurry to pass on the left.

Recommended Age Group

Zlin offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to various age groups, making it a versatile destination for different types of travelers.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The city's wide sidewalks and parks are stroller-friendly, but there are limited specific attractions for this age group.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. The Zlin Zoo is a massive highlight, and the city's open green spaces are great for children.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The interactive museums, unique industrial history, and the annual youth film festival provide engaging experiences.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those looking for a relaxed urban exploration will find Zlin fascinating.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The city center is relatively flat and accessible, and the pace of life is relaxed, making it ideal for slow travel.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The functionalist design of Zlin means the city center features wide, flat sidewalks that are generally wheelchair friendly.
• Major attractions, including the Museum of Southeast Moravia (Building 14) and the Bata Skyscraper (Building 21), offer elevator access and accessible facilities.
• Zlin Zoo is largely accessible, with paved paths throughout most of the continent-themed exhibits, though some natural terrain areas may require assistance.
• Low-floor trolleybuses operate on many routes, making public transportation accessible for travelers with mobility challenges.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the boss's office in the Bata Skyscraper (Building 21) is actually built inside a massive elevator? Measuring 6 by 6 meters, the office is fully equipped with a desk, telephone, and a sink with hot and cold water. It was designed so the company director could travel between floors and oversee operations without ever leaving his desk.

Cool Statistics

• Building 21 Height: The Bata Skyscraper stands at 77.5 meters tall, making it the second-tallest building in Europe upon its completion in 1938.
• Bata Founding: The Bata Shoe Company was founded in Zlin in 1894 by Tomas, Antonin, and Anna Bata.
• Film Festival: The Zlin Film Festival, established in 1961, is the oldest and largest film festival of its kind for children and youth in the world.
• Zoo Visitors: Zlin Zoo is the second most visited zoo in the Czech Republic, attracting over 600,000 visitors annually.