Lübeck lies on the Trave in Schleswig-Holstein at an average elevation of 18 meters above sea level – almost at sea level. The old town island sits at 10–15 m between the Trave and Wakenitz rivers; surrounding districts reach 30–50 m. Lübeck's medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the 'Queen of the Hanse' – northern Europe's most powerful trading city in the Middle Ages.
That works out to roughly 59 feet above sea level. The nearby cities compared on this page average 16 m, putting Lübeck roughly on par with them.
Quick Facts
| Elevation (above sea level) | 18 m |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 53.8655° N, 10.6866° E |
| Country | Germany |
| Continent | Europe |
Compare elevations – nearby cities
| City | Elevation (m) | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Hamburg | 8 | Germany |
| Kiel | 23 | Germany |
| Rostock | 18 | Germany |
Cities with a similar elevation
The following cities sit at an elevation similar to Lübeck (18 m above sea level):
| City | Elevation (m) | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Bremen | 20 | Germany |
| Rome | 21 | Italy |
| London | 11 | United Kingdom |
| Brussels | 29 | Belgium |
| Amsterdam | 5 | Netherlands |
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is Lübeck above sea level?
Lübeck averages 18 m above sea level. The old town island sits at 10–15 m; surrounding districts at 30–50 m. The Trave lies near 0 m (Baltic Sea level).
What is the Holstentor in Lübeck?
The Holstentor is Lübeck's iconic medieval gateway from 1464. Built on soft ground, it has subsided and leans slightly inward. It appeared on Germany's 50 Mark note (1989–2001) and is now a museum.
Why is Lübeck the marzipan capital?
Lübeck marzipan has been famous since the 16th century. The firm Niederegger (founded 1806) is globally known. The origin legend – marzipan created during a famine from almonds and sugar – is disputed but the association remains strong.