Munich
is the capital Bavaria and the centre of economic and cultural
activity in southern Germany. Located only a few miles from
the Alps, this is one of Germany's most attractive cities.
The different
districts of Munich have their own particular attractions. Flea
markets and antiquities are found on the Ottostrasse, elegant
shops line the Maffeistrasse, while art galleries are located
under the arcades of the Hofgartenstrasse. Schwabing, which
was once a meeting place for artists and intellectuals, still
attracts visitors with its cafes, cabarets and shops.
Munich is
renowned for its excellent beer, which can be tasted in the
many brasseries and taverns, as well as in the famous beer gardens
(Biergarten). During the Oktoberfest (October Festival), brasseries
serve a special beer known as Wiesnbier which is still transported
in the traditional way by horse-drawn wagons. At this time,
more than seven million beer-lovers gather to taste the beer
under canvas marquees on the Theresenwiese.