France 3, Public television station in Paris, France
France 3 is a nationwide television broadcaster with 48 regional branches, transmitting news, entertainment programs, and documentaries throughout French territory. The channel operates through both traditional television frequencies and digital platforms, with each regional office producing independent content for its audience.
The broadcaster was initially called La Troisième Chaîne Couleur when founded in 1972, emphasizing the new color television technology. A renaming to France Régions 3 followed later, before the current name was introduced in September 1992.
The name comes from the chronological order in which French public broadcasters were established, making this the third national channel. Local newsrooms produce programs in regional languages such as Occitan, Basque, or Breton, allowing viewers to watch shows in their own native tongue.
Programs can be received through conventional television sets, online streaming services, and a media library for catching up on missed episodes. Each regional edition broadcasts content tailored to its specific area, so programming varies depending on location within France.
The two national daily newscasts are split into 48 different regional editions, each delivering specific reports for their area. This adaptation means viewers in Marseille see different local stories than viewers in Strasbourg, even though they tune to the same channel.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
