Charming European Baby Names for Boys and Girls

This post is all about European baby names

Are you looking for a name with European charm? European names can vary so much from country to country, but each one has its own unique appeal! As a Dutchie who has traveled a lot across Europe, I’ve heard many popular European baby names in different countries, and I’m excited to share them with you! these are the names that you’ll hear every day across Europe and that are loved in their respective countries, from the classics of the UK to the melodic choices in Italy, and from the vibrant favorites in Spain to the strong picks in Germany. Forget about origins—this is all about what names are trendy and used in European countries today!

In this baby name list, you will find the most popular names from England, Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, Germany, Greece, Norway, and Ireland! I’m sure you will find the perfect name for your little one!!

British Names: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Looking for traditional baby names? British names offer a mix of classic choices and trendy options. Fun fact: Great British names often have royal connections, with many children named after members of the royal family or historical monarchs.

Popular British Girl Names

Lily – my favorite! (my daughter’s name) but also a common favorite in England for its delicate beauty and association with purity and innocence.
Poppy – the popularity surged after World War I due to its association with remembrance and the poppy flower’s significance as a symbol of sacrifice.
Rosie – a classic name with a cheerful, friendly vibe, often used as a nickname for Rose or Rosalind.
Emily – has been a hit for generations thanks to its timeless charm and literary associations, particularly with authors like Emily Brontë and Emily Dickinson.
Charlotte – popularity soared after the birth of Princess Charlotte, but it’s remained a favorite due to its elegant, regal sound and classic appeal.
Matilda – a beloved choice thanks to its spunky and spirited character, often associated with the strong-willed Mathilda in Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book.
Sophia – a popular name for its timeless elegance and international appeal, often chosen for its classic sound and sophisticated vibe.

Looking for more classy names? This post is all about it!

Popular British Boy Names

Henry – the top European baby name! A classic name loved for its regal sound, and did you know it’s been used by eight British kings?
George – a strong and timeless choice, often chosen because it’s the name of England’s patron saint and several kings.
Rupert – might sound posh and sophisticated, but it actually comes from old German and means “bright fame” or “fame-bringer”.
Oliver – A popular traditional European boys name. The Popularity soared after the character Oliver Twist, but it’s remained a favorite because it’s just so friendly and easy to say.
Harry – a favorite thanks to its friendly vibe, but did you know it’s short for Henry?
Charlie – a popular choice for its friendly and versatile nature, often used as a nickname for Charles.
David – a classic name that’s stood the test of time, and it’s got biblical roots, too!
Andrew – a strong and noble name, and it’s also the patron saint of Scotland, making it a popular choice across the UK.

French names: A Lot of Charm and a Bit Posh.

These French finds are fancy names with class, often drawing inspiration from literature, history, and the arts. It’s interesting to note that many French origins have a religious significance, honoring saints and biblical figures.

Popular French Girl Names

Laurence – a unisex name in France, is popular for its sophisticated and timeless appeal.
Louise – a classic French name, is beloved for its grace and elegance, often associated with royalty.
Romy – a chic and modern name, is gaining popularity in France, influenced by famous actresses like Romy Schneider.
Géraldine – a traditional French name, remains common, known for its strong and noble connotations.
Cloé – a variant of Chloe, is favored in France for its charming and feminine sound.
Sacha – a unisex name, is popular in France for its versatility and contemporary feel.
Juliette – a romantic and timeless name, is cherished in France for its literary and Shakespearean associations.
Isabelle – a classic and elegant name, is widely loved in France for its timeless appeal.
Marie – a deeply traditional name, is common in France and is often chosen for its religious significance.
Claudine – a vintage French name, is appreciated for its classic and sophisticated vibe.

Popular French Boy Names

Jean – a classic French name, is common in France, known for its simplicity and timeless appeal.
Philippe – a regal and elegant name, is popular in France, and often associated with nobility.
Pierre – meaning “stone,” is a traditional French name with biblical roots, widely used and respected.
Patrick – of Irish origin but is common in France, appreciated for its international appeal.
Alain – a strong and masculine name, is popular in France, reflecting its French heritage.
Laurent – a name meaning “from Laurentum,” is cherished in France for its classic and sophisticated sound.
Robert – a timeless and enduring name, is common in France and is known for its strength and reliability.
Yves – a traditional French name, is favored for its simplicity and elegance.
Paul – a biblical name, is popular in France, and appreciated for its timeless and universal appeal.
Gabriel – meaning “God is my strength,” is a popular name in France with strong biblical associations.
Arthur – a name of Celtic origin, is gaining popularity in France, known for its noble and legendary connotations.
Léo – a short and trendy name, is common in France and is appreciated for its modern and stylish sound.

Italian Names: Melodious and Meaningful

Italian names are known for their musicality and romance, drawing inspiration from history, literature, and nature. It’s fascinating that Italian names often have regional variations, reflecting the diverse linguistic landscape of the country.

Popular Italian Girl Names

Camilla – is popular in Italy, often associated with nobility and elegance, inspired by the legendary Roman warrior maiden.
Beatrice – meaning “bringer of joy,” is beloved in Italy, partly due to Dante Alighieri’s muse in “The Divine Comedy.”
Vittoria – meaning “victory,” is a strong and classic name often chosen to symbolize success and triumph.
Agata – cherished in Italy, inspired by Saint Agatha, the patron saint of Catania and protector against fire.
Francesca – meaning “free,” is a traditional Italian baby name, that evokes strength and independence.
Giulia – the Italian form of Julia, is widely loved for its classic and elegant sound.
Valeria – meaning “strong” or “healthy,” is a well-loved name in Italy, signifying resilience.
Elisa – popular in Italy for its simplicity and grace, often associated with musical and literary figures.

Popular Italian Boy Names

Alessandro – the Italian form of Alexander, meaning “defender of men,” is admired for its heroic and strong connotations.
Mattia – the Italian version of Matthew, is a favorite due to its biblical roots and meaning “gift of God.”
Stefano – meaning “crown” or “garland,” is a classic Italian name with a rich historical and religious background.
Michele – the Italian form of Michael, is popular due to its association with the archangel and protector.
Vincenzo – meaning “conquering,” is a traditional Italian name symbolizing victory and strength.
Luca – the Italian form of Luke, is a widely loved name with a warm and friendly feel.
Domenico – meaning “belonging to the Lord,” is a traditional and deeply religious name in Italy.
Luigi – the Italian form of Louis, is a classic name often associated with historical figures and royalty.
Tommaso – the Italian version of Thomas, is popular for its strong and timeless appeal.
Nicola – meaning “victory of the people,” is a well-loved name in Italy, often associated with strength and leadership.

Spanish Names: Vibrant and Full of Life

Spanish names are often melodious and full of meaning, reflecting the passionate spirit of Spanish culture. Spanish origins also often honor family members, with children named after grandparents or other relatives.

Popular Spanish Girl Names

Marta – a popular name in Spain, inspired by the biblical figure Saint Martha, symbolizing hospitality and service.
Elena – a name derived from Helen of Troy, is well-loved in Spain for its association with beauty and light.
María-José – combines two deeply traditional Spanish names, honoring the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph.
Alba – means “dawn” in Spanish, making it a poetic choice that reflects new beginnings and light.
Lucía – meaning “light,” is a beloved name often given to girls born on Saint Lucia’s day.
Martina – the feminine form of Martin, is popular in Spain, evoking strength and dedication.
María – is one of the most common names in Spain, due to its religious significance and timeless appeal.
Paula – derived from the Latin word for “small,” is a classic and enduring name in Spain.
Ana – is a simple and traditional name that has been widely used in Spain for centuries.
Carmen – inspired by the Virgin of Carmen, is a name deeply rooted in Spanish culture and religious tradition.

Popular Spanish Boy Names

Martin – a respected name in Spain, honoring Saint Martin of Tours, known for his generosity.
Manuel – meaning “God is with us,” is a popular Spanish name often linked to religious devotion.
Carlos – a royal name in Spain, borne by several kings, adding to its prestige.
Leo – short for Leonardo or Leon, means “lion” and is admired for its strong, regal connotations.
Hugo – meaning “mind” or “intellect,” is favored in Spain for its noble and scholarly associations.
Adrián – derived from the Adriatic Sea, is a stylish and widely appreciated name in Spain.
Enrique – the Spanish form of Henry, is a classic name often associated with historical figures and royalty.
Pablo – the Spanish version of Paul, is famous for its artistic connections, especially with Pablo Picasso.
Alejandro – meaning “defender of men,” is a strong and enduringly popular name in Spain.

Dutch Names: Simple and Strong

Dutch baby names are often simple, strong, and easy to pronounce, reflecting the straightforward and practical nature of Dutch culture. Dutch names also often have meanings related to nature and the environment, reflecting the Dutch love for the outdoors.

Popular Dutch Girl Names

Nora – is popular in the Netherlands for its simplicity and international appeal, making it a modern favorite.
Zoe – meaning “life,” is a well-loved name in Holland for its vibrant and positive connotations.
Sanne – a common Dutch name appreciated for its sweet sound and straightforward spelling.
Maud – a name with royal roots, is favored in the Netherlands for its classic and timeless charm.
Tessa – a popular name in Holland, known for its friendly and approachable feel.
Anna – a classic and international name, remains a timeless choice in the Netherlands.
Saar – a short and sweet Dutch name, is trendy for its simplicity and unique sound.
Juul – a Dutch variation of Julia, is cherished for its modern and playful vibe.
Roos – meaning “rose” in Dutch, is a beloved name symbolizing beauty and elegance.
Feline – is similar to the name Felina, loved in Holland for its graceful and melodic sound.
Lieke – a diminutive of Angelique, is a popular and endearing name in the Netherlands.
Eline – is admired in the Netherlands for its elegant and classic feel.
Veerle – a traditional Dutch name appreciated for its unique sound and cultural roots.
Sterre – meaning “star,” is a popular name in Holland for its celestial and inspiring connotations.
Floor – is short for Florence, a trendy and modern name in the Netherlands.

Popular Dutch Boy Names

Sem – a popular and modern name in the Netherlands, appreciated for its short and strong sound.
Daan – a Dutch short form of Daniel, is widely loved for its simplicity and timeless appeal.
Bas – is short for Sebastian, is a common Dutch name known for its friendly and approachable feel.
Tom – a classic name, is favored in the Netherlands for its straightforward and international appeal.
Bart – is short for Bartholomew and is popular in Holland for its strong and traditional roots.
Wouter – meaning “ruler of the army,” is a well-loved name in the Netherlands for its strong and noble connotations.
Roel – a diminutive of Roeland, is appreciated for its unique and traditional Dutch sound.
Milan – a name with Slavic origins, is trendy in the Netherlands for its modern and international vibe.
Max – is short for Maximilian, a popular and energetic name in Holland.
Thijs – is short for Matthijs, a common and endearing Dutch name.
Guus – a diminutive of August, is beloved in the Netherlands for its friendly and approachable feel.
Joris – the Dutch form of George, is popular for its traditional and strong sound.
Teun – short for Antonius, is a widely loved name in the Netherlands for its simplicity and classic appeal.

German Names: Strong and Stately

German names are strong and sturdy, often rooted in history and tradition. classic German names often have meanings related to strength, courage, and honor, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Popular German Girl Names

Hannah – is a popular name in Germany due to its biblical origins and timeless elegance.
Emma – is widely loved in Germany for its simplicity and vintage charm, making a strong comeback.
Lena – a diminutive of Helena, is favored in Germany for its sweet sound and classic roots.
Daphne – is appreciated in Germany for its mythological origins and unique, melodic sound.
Frieda – meaning “peace,” is cherished in Germany for its traditional and serene connotations.
Lotte – is short for Charlotte, a common and endearing name in Germany.
Theresa – is popular in Germany for its classical and noble sound, often associated with saints.
Lina – a short and sweet name, is loved for its simplicity and ease of pronunciation.
Ida – a classic name in Germany, valued for its vintage charm and straightforward appeal.
Ella – is widely favored in Germany for its elegant and timeless quality.
Lea – a name with biblical roots, is popular for its simplicity and gentle sound.

Popular German Boy Names

Felix – meaning “happy” or “fortunate,” is a well-loved name in Germany for its positive connotations.
Lukas – is popular in Germany due to its biblical origins and strong, classic appeal.
Ben – is short for Benjamin, a trendy and widely used name in Germany.
Leon – meaning “lion,” is appreciated in Germany for its strong and regal connotations.
Tobias – a traditional name in Germany, known for its biblical roots and timeless quality.
Julian – is favored in Germany for its elegant sound and historical significance.
Emil – is a classic and charming name in Germany, often associated with literature and culture.
Jonas – a name with biblical origins, is popular in Germany for its simplicity and strong sound.
Thomas – a timeless name in Germany, known for its biblical roots and enduring popularity.

Greek Names: Mythical and Magnificent

Greek origins carry an air of myth and legend, drawing inspiration from ancient gods, heroes, and historical figures. Interestingly, Greek names often have meanings related to virtues, qualities, and ideals that were highly valued in ancient Greece.

Popular Greek Girl Names

Olga – a name of Russian origin, is popular in Greece due to its association with Saint Olga, a revered figure in Orthodox Christianity.
Athanasia – meaning “immortality,” is cherished in Greece for its strong and inspiring connotations.
Christina – a common name in Greece, reflecting the country’s deep Christian traditions.
Evangelia – meaning “good news,” is a beloved name in Greece, often associated with the Annunciation.
Eirini – meaning “peace,” is a popular and meaningful name in Greece, symbolizing harmony.
Georgia – a widely used name in Greece, inspired by the country’s patron saint, Saint George.
Anastasia – meaning “resurrection,” is a highly favored name in Greece, reflecting the importance of Easter.
Ioanna – the Greek form of Joanna, is popular due to its biblical origins and classic appeal.
Eleni – the Greek form of Helen, is a timeless name loved for its historical and Greek mythology.

Popular Greek Boy Names

Georgios – the Greek word for “farmer,” is a very common name in Greece, honoring Saint George.
Dimitrios – a popular name in Greece, derived from Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, and often associated with Saint Demetrius.
Konstantin – meaning “steadfast,” is a traditional name in Greece, reflecting strength and reliability.
Theodoros – meaning “gift of God,” is a cherished name in Greece with a strong religious significance.
Stavros – meaning “cross,” is a deeply meaningful name in Greece, symbolizing the Christian faith.
Ioan – the Greek form of John, is widely used due to its biblical importance and classic appeal.
Pavlos – the Greek form of Paul, is a popular name in Greece, reflecting its strong biblical roots.
Nicholas – meaning “victory of the people,” is a well-loved name in Greece, often associated with Saint Nicholas.
Basil – meaning “king,” is a popular name in Greece, reflecting nobility and leadership.
Elias – the Greek form of Elijah, is a common name in Greece due to its strong biblical associations.

Norwegian Names: Nature-Inspired and Noble

Norwegian names are often inspired by nature, with choices like Bjørn (bear) and Ingrid (beautiful) reflecting the country’s stunning landscapes. Classic names like Erik and Inger are still popular. Norwegian names also often have historical significance, honoring famous explorers, kings, and heroes.

Popular Norwegian Girl Names

Ella – is popular in Norway for its simplicity and international appeal.
Sofie – a variant of Sophia meaning “wisdom,” is widely loved in Norway for its classic and elegant sound.
Maja – a playful and lively name, is a favorite in Norway for its cheerful vibe.
Alma – meaning “soul” in Spanish, is appreciated in Norway for its gentle and soulful connotations.
Frida – is popular in Norway, partly due to its historical and cultural significance, including the famous artist Frida Kahlo.
Eva – a name with biblical roots, is a timeless and widely used name in Norway.
Marit – a traditional Norwegian name, known for its strong cultural and historical roots.
Inger – a common name in Norway, often chosen for its classic and Scandinavian heritage.
Ann – a simple and traditional name, remains popular in Norway for its timeless charm.
Katja – a diminutive of Katherine, is favored in Norway for its modern and friendly feel.
Hildi – short for Hilde, meaning “battle,” is appreciated in Norway for its strong and historical significance.

Popular Norwegian Boy Names

Jakob – a biblical name, is popular in Norway for its timeless and classic appeal.
Filip – the Scandinavian form of Philip, meaning “lover of horses,” is common in Norway.
Noah – a favorite in Norway due to its biblical roots and modern popularity.
Hans – a traditional and strong name, has been widely used in Norway for generations.
Odd – meaning “point of a weapon,” is a traditional and unique name in Norway.
Tor – inspired by the Norse god of thunder, is a strong and popular name in Norway.
Jan – a simple and classic name, remains a popular choice in Norway.
Erik – meaning “eternal ruler,” is a common name in Norway with strong historical roots.
Isak – the Scandinavian form of Isaac, is popular for its biblical significance.
Ludvig – meaning “famous warrior,” is a well-loved name in Norway for its noble connotations.
Anders – the Scandinavian form of Andrew, is a popular and traditional name in Norway.
Jørgen – the Scandinavian form of George, is appreciated for its classic and strong sound.
Kristoffer – the Scandinavian form of Christopher, meaning “bearer of Christ,” is common in Norway.
Kasper – a variant of Casper, is a popular name in Norway, known for its friendly and approachable feel.

Irish Names: Whimsical and Rich in Heritage

Irish names have fascinating histories and roots in Gaelic traditions, which make them special and interesting. But because they include sounds and letters that are different from English, they can be tricky to say for people who aren’t familiar with Irish. By providing pronunciation help with the names, you can make sure to pronounce it the right way!

Popular Irish Girl Names

Aoife – Pronounced “EE-fa,” this name means “beauty” or “radiance.”
Niamh – Pronounced “NEEV,” Niamh means “bright” or “radiant.”
Saoirse – Pronounced “SEER-sha,” this name means “freedom.”
Róisín – Pronounced “ROH-sheen,” this name means “little rose.”
Caoimhe – Pronounced “KEE-va,” Caoimhe means “gentle” or “precious.”

Popular Irish Boy Names

Conor – A name that means “lover of hounds,” Conor is a strong and traditional choice.
Liam – A shorter form of William, Liam is a popular name worldwide.
Finn – Meaning “fair” or “white,” Finn is a name that’s simple yet striking.
Oisin – Pronounced “OH-sheen,” this name means “little deer.”
Cian – Pronounced “KEE-an,” Cian means “ancient” or “enduring.”

The Beauty and Diversity of European Baby Names

You’ve probably found some unique names in this list with baby girl names and baby boy names!

European baby names offer a lot of different types, because of the different cultures and are ideal for parents seeking both traditional and trendy names for their little ones. The top names reflect the rich tapestry of European languages and cultures. Whether you’re drawn to timeless European girl names or searching for charming European boy names, the tradition and diversity found in traditional European baby names make them timeless top choices for families worldwide!