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.