Marseille in the south of France is Cultural Capital of Europe, 2013. This vibrant, exciting city has already undertaken some massive renovation projects, some of which will continue through the year. If you're in Marseille, the main point of contact for all the festivities that will take place throughout 2013 is the 'M' Pavilion, on Place Villeneuve Bargemon. Based on the France Pavilion at the Shanghai World Fair, it's open to the public daily between 10am and 7pm. You can get all the information you need and buy tickets to the many events here. It's run by the Marseille Tourist Office.
Inside you'll also find exhibitions on the surrounding regions like Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, Bouches-du-Rhone and around Marseille, so it makes a good starting point if you want to plan a few days around the south of France.