Hamburg sits at an average elevation of just 8 meters above sea level, making it one of Germany's lowest-lying major cities. The Elbe flows through the city at only 2–4 m above sea level; without the dyke system, storm surges from the North Sea would regularly inundate vast areas. Only the northeastern district of Volksdorf rises to around 55 m.
That works out to roughly 26 feet above sea level. The nearby cities compared on this page average 37 m, putting Hamburg about 29 m lower.
Quick Facts
| Elevation (above sea level) | 8 m |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 53.5753° N, 10.0153° E |
| Country | Germany |
| Continent | Europe |
Compare elevations – nearby cities
| City | Elevation (m) | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Berlin | 34 | Germany |
| Bremen | 20 | Germany |
| Hanover | 58 | Germany |
Cities with a similar elevation
The following cities sit at an elevation similar to Hamburg (8 m above sea level):
| City | Elevation (m) | Country |
|---|---|---|
| London | 11 | United Kingdom |
| Amsterdam | 5 | Netherlands |
| Lübeck | 18 | Germany |
| Rostock | 18 | Germany |
| Rome | 21 | Italy |
| Kiel | 23 | Germany |
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is Hamburg above sea level?
Hamburg averages 8 m above sea level. The Elbe lowlands sit at 2–4 m while Volksdorf in the northeast reaches around 55 m.
Is Hamburg at risk of flooding?
Yes. North Sea storm surges push water up the Elbe. Hamburg's extensive dyke system has protected the city for centuries, most famously during the severe 1962 flood.
Which part of Hamburg is highest?
Volksdorf in northeast Hamburg reaches approximately 55 m above sea level, well above the city average of 8 m.