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A gateway to Austria: new Czech D3 motorway section enhances international connectivity

The D3 motorway section between Třebonín and Kaplice-nádraží improves travel in South Bohemia, reaching close to the Austrian border

The new bypass of České Budějovice and the connecting section of the D3 motorway between Třebonín and Kaplice-nádraží have significantly accelerated travel southward to Austria. AFRY contributed to the Třebonín–Kaplice-nádraží section as the general designer of the implementation documentation.

More than 40 of our road, bridge, and water engineering designers worked on the construction documentation. A trio of bridges designed by our colleague Martin Neradílek earned us two category wins in the Czech-Slovak round of the prestigious international Tekla BIM Awards 2024, securing us a place in the global finals.

Cross-border mobility and regional impact

Construction of the 8.5 km long D3 section from Třebonín to Kaplice-nádraží began in early 2022. The project was carried out for the Road and Motorway Directorate of the Czech Republic by Metrostav Infrastructure a.s. It was opened to traffic in December 2024, along with the Úsilné–Hodějovice and Hodějovice–Třebonín sections, which together form the České Budějovice bypass.

Travel benefits for residents and visitors

This new infrastructure significantly reduces travel time to Austria and makes it easier for travellers to reach the sea. Whether you're heading to Salzburg, Vienna, or the Adriatic coast, this section of road offers a smoother drive.

For people living in or around České Budějovice, the new section simplifies their daily commute and reduces congestion. The South Bohemian region will also benefit from increased connectivity, paving the way for better business opportunities and easier access to popular tourist destinations.

One of the award-winning bridge structures along the new D3 motorway.

A key corridor in Europe’s E55 route

Work is ongoing on the remaining South Bohemian part of the D3 motorway up to the Austrian border, with completion expected by 2027.

When completed, the D3 will become a key transport artery between Prague and the South Bohemian Region and connect to the motorway network in Austria. Its length will be 170 km and it will cover the route Prague – České Budějovice – Austria. The whole D3 motorway will belong to the E55 European route coming from Scandinavia and crossing the Czech territory towards Greece.