Serving as the capital of Lower Saxony in northwestern Germany, the city of Hannover, also ‘Hanover’, rests on the scenic banks of the Leine River and the Mittelland Canal. This laid-back city features relaxing green spaces, fascinating museums, and a flourishing theatre and arts scene. Visitors can look forward to exploring the immaculately designed and manicured Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen; visiting Lake Maschsee, stretching almost 80 hectares just south of the city centre; and strolling through the vast and lush Eilenriede, Europe's largest urban forest. Art enthusiasts can view the work of the famed late French artist Niki de Saint-Phalle at the Sprengel Museum. Other popular activities include: exploring Kropcke, a vast pedestrianized shopping and entertainment area in the heart of Hanover and wandering through the neighbourhoods of Oststadt, List or Linden to view the impressive heritage architecture.