Where Is the Baltic Sea Located?

The Baltic Sea (Click here to see map) is a brackish water body in Northern Europe, bordered by nine countries: Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, and Denmark. It stretches between 53°N to 66°N latitude and 10°E to 30°E longitude and connects to the Atlantic Ocean via the North Sea through the Danish Straits (Kattegat and Skagerrak).

Many people also ask: Is the Baltic Sea part of the Atlantic?  Why is it called “Baltic”? And How deep is it?  Below, we answer these questions in detail while exploring the sea’s geography, ecology, and significance.

Which Countries Border the Baltic Sea?

The Baltic Sea touches nine nations, making it a vital hub for trade and culture:

• Sweden (Stockholm, Gotland)
• Finland (Helsinki, Turku)
• Russia (St. Petersburg, Kaliningrad)
• Estonia (Tallinn)
• Latvia (Riga)
• Lithuania (Klaipėda)
• Poland (Gdańsk)
• Germany (Rügen, Kiel)
• Denmark (Bornholm, Copenhagen)

To see location of these Click Here

Fun Fact: The Baltic coastline spans 8,000 km, featuring archipelagos, sandy beaches, and historic ports.

Is the Baltic Sea Connected to the Atlantic Ocean?

Yes—but indirectly. The Baltic Sea flows into the North Sea via the Danish Straits (Kattegat and Skagerrak), which then connects to the Atlantic. However, its low salinity (due to freshwater rivers and limited tides) makes it unique.

Why is the Baltic Sea less salty?

• 40+ rivers (like the Neva and Vistula) dilute it.
• Shallow straits restrict ocean water inflow.

Why Is the Baltic Sea Important?

A. Ecological Significance

• One of the world’s largest brackish water ecosystems.
• Home to rare species like Baltic herring and ringed seals.

B. Historical & Economic Role

• Hanseatic League (medieval trade network) thrived here.
• Today, it is a major shipping route (oil, cargo, ferries).
• Tourism hotspot (e.g., Finnish archipelago, Polish coast).

How Deep Is the Baltic Sea?

• Average depth: 55 meters (180 ft).
• Deepest point: Landsort Deep (459 m / 1,506 ft) near Sweden.
• Shallower than the North Sea, making it ideal for offshore wind farms.

Baltic Sea vs. North Sea: Key Differences