100+ beautiful Italian baby names with timeless charm

02_Feb_Final
cradlewise_staff
Cradlewise Staff

Spoiler alert: You’re about to fall in love.

Choosing a baby name is like picking the perfect pasta shape, everyone has an opinion, and the right one just feels right. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic cobblestone streets or just love the lyrical vibe of the Italian language, these Italian baby names bring all the charm, flavor, and history you could ask for.

From classic names that have graced Roman emperors and Renaissance painters, to ones you’ve heard in your favorite Netflix dramas or mafia epics (we see you, The Godfather), this list is packed with over 100 Italian baby girl names and Italian baby boy names that are equal parts elegant and effortlessly cool.

Oh, and if you’re also into name-nerding like we are, some of these beauties are also iconic Italian last names that work surprisingly well as firsts. Let’s dive in, espresso optional, but highly recommended.

100+ Names with that signature Italian sparkle

1. Alessia

Soft and lyrical, Alessia means “defending warrior.” Also, shoutout to singer Alessia Cara for giving the name a cool-girl edge.

2. Matteo

A charming twist on Matthew, this name means “gift of God”, and sounds like someone who’s always five minutes late, but forgivably so.

3. Giulia

Italy’s version of Julia, it’s sleek, stylish, and impossible not to say with a little flair: JOO-lya.

4. Leonardo

Yes, like da Vinci and DiCaprio. A name for the creatively gifted or the dramatically good-looking, ideally both.

5. Chiara

Meaning “bright” or “clear,” Chiara has a light-as-air feel and a runway-ready vibe.

6. Luca

Short, sweet, and universally loved, Luca has that international cool factor, it’s just as home in LA as in Tuscany.

7. Isabella

A timeless Italian baby girl name that means “devoted to God.” Also the name of every Disney princess at heart.

8. Enzo

This zippy little name means “winner” or “ruler of the estate.” Fast & Furious fans will recognize it from Enzo Ferrari.

9. Sofia

An all-time favorite that means “wisdom.” If she starts reading books by age two, don’t say we didn’t warn you.

10. Dante

With literary roots (hello, Divine Comedy), Dante feels poetic, mysterious, and kind of like he journals in Latin.

11. Bianca

Means “white” or “pure.” Also: the effortlessly stylish character from 10 Things I Hate About You.

12. Marco

Adventure-ready and forever exploring, Marco (yes, as in Polo) is a name that says, “Let’s go somewhere.”

13. Gabriella

Flowy and feminine, this name means “God is my strength.” Plus, High School Musical’s Gabriella made it sparkle.

14. Nico

Edgy and modern, Nico is short for Niccolò but stands strong on its own. Bonus: easy to yell across a playground.

15. Alessandra

The elegant cousin of Alexandra, this name has fashion runway vibes and royal-level grace.

16. Rocco

Strong and rugged, Rocco feels like a rockstar in toddler form. Fun fact: Madonna named her son Rocco.

17. Valentina

Meaning “strong” or “healthy,” this is a name made for girls who rule the world with glittery sneakers.

18. Giovanni

The Italian version of John, Giovanni sounds like someone who owns a Vespa and makes perfect espresso.

19. Serena

Peaceful and calm, this name floats like a lullaby. Gossip Girl fans might also get flashbacks.

20. Angelo

Means “angel,” and let’s face it: sometimes ironic, sometimes spot-on, depending on the diaper situation.

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Did you know?

Many Italian last names, like Ferrari, Romano, or De Luca, originally came from family trades, towns, or even ancestors’ first names. So if you want a truly Italian feel, matching a first name with a meaningful Italian last name can add a poetic flair to your baby’s full name.

21. Lucia

Pronounced loo-CHEE-ah, this radiant name means “light”, perfect for the little one lighting up your life (and your 3 a.m. wake-ups).

22. Lorenzo

Cool, classic, and a little dramatic, this name is made for swooning. Bonus points if he grows up to recite Shakespeare.

23. Aria

A melodic name that means “air” or “song.” Opera fans and Pretty Little Liars viewers, this one’s for you.

24. Francesco

Saintly and solid, Francesco is the name of Italy’s patron saint. Also: super fun to say with flair.

25. Ginevra

This enchanting name is Italy’s take on Guinevere. Magical, mysterious, and Harry Potter-approved (it’s Ginny’s full name!).

26. Riccardo

A classic that sounds just a little more glamorous than Richard, especially with that rolled R.

27. Rosa

Simple and romantic, Rosa brings vintage charm and flower power to any nursery.

28. Giulio

Italian for Julius, this one’s fit for little emperors and history buffs alike.

29. Fiorella

Means “little flower,” and it’s just as delicate and delightful as it sounds.

30. Pietro

Italian for Peter, this name means “rock”, so don’t be surprised if your kid’s the steady, dependable type.

31. Stella

Shining bright like a star literally, that’s what this name means. And it’s just as radiant.

32. Massimo

Big on style and substance, Massimo means “greatest.” It’s bold, confident, and hard to forget.

33. Noemi

Italy’s version of Naomi, this name feels sweet and chic, like the main character in a summer romance.

34. Fabio

Not just a ‘90s heartthrob! Fabio means “bean grower” (seriously), but we promise it’s 100% charming.

35. Elisabetta

The elegant Italian form of Elizabeth, it feels regal, graceful, and kind of destined for tiaras.

36. Tommaso

A warm, cuddly twist on Thomas. It sounds like a kid who gives the best bear hugs.

37. Caterina

Elegant, vintage, and totally Italian. Just don’t be surprised if she insists on twirling everywhere she goes.

38. Aldo

Short, sweet, and old-school cool, Aldo means “wise” or “rich.” Basically a mini philosopher in baby form.

39. Donatella

Glamorous and dramatic, this name screams fashion icon. (Looking at you, Versace.)

40. Giuliano

A lesser-used gem that sounds like poetry. If you’re going for unique but still classic, Giuliano is gold.

41. Mirella

Means “to admire.” And honestly, how could you not with a name this lovely?

42. Antonio

Smooth, suave, and Shakespearean, Antonio has been a fan favorite for centuries.

43. Livia

This sweet name is a quieter cousin of Olivia, but just as charming and a little more rare.

44. Salvatore

A classic Italian baby boy name meaning “savior.” Dramatic and heartfelt in the best way.

45. Zita

Short, zippy, and full of fire. It’s also the name of an Italian saint, tiny but mighty energy.

46. Carmine

Rich in sound and tradition, Carmine also brings to mind deep reds and Italian sunsets.

47. Renata

Means “reborn.” It’s soft, strong, and slightly mysterious, in the best way possible.

48. Giulietta

Think Romeo and Giulietta… but hopefully with more sleep and fewer tragic endings.

49. Elio

Sunny and sleek, Elio means “sun”, perfect for bright little souls. Also: Call Me by Your Name, anyone?

50. Lavinia

An elegant, ancient name that sounds like it belongs in a Roman epic, or a very fancy baby book.

51. Marcella

This vintage gem means “warlike,” but don’t worry, it’s more of a tiny warrior princess than gladiator.

52. Stefano

Italy’s answer to Stephen, this name has a polished, old-Hollywood charm (plus, it sounds great shouted from a balcony).

53. Elettra

A zesty, electric name (literally, it’s the Italian version of Electra). Rare and radiant.

54. Carlo

Classic, strong, and no-nonsense. Carlo feels like the kind of kid who’ll fix your bike and then charm your grandma.

55. Liliana

Floral, feminine, and effortlessly lyrical, Liliana is the name of a future poet or pop star (maybe both).

56. Umberto

This retro name means “bright warrior” and carries a distinctly intellectual vibe (like your baby might grow up to write novels in cafes).

57. Benedetta

Meaning “blessed,” Benedetta is perfect for the baby you whispered wishes to before they even arrived.

58. Giorgio

A sleek choice that brings to mind style icons like Giorgio Armani. Bonus: it means “farmer,” so fashion and function?

59. Tiziana

This name sparkles with energy and flair, ideal for a little one with a big personality.

60. Arturo

Dashing and romantic, Arturo has knightly vibes (and yes, it’s the Italian version of Arthur).

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Did you know?

Italian last names often came from someone’s hometown (<em>Romano</em> = from Rome), their dad’s name (<em>Di Giovanni</em> = son of Giovanni), or even quirky traits (like <em>Basso</em>, meaning “short”). Pair one with your favorite Italian baby name for that full-on cinematic charm!<br>

61. Romina

With roots in Rome, Romina has a lyrical, vintage feel, perfect for your tiny empress in the making.

62. Orlando

Bold and adventurous, this name brings Shakespeare and The Princess Diaries to mind. Regal with a twist.

63. Viviana

Lively and luxurious, Viviana practically pirouettes off the tongue. It means “full of life,” and we’re here for it.

64. Federico

Sophisticated and a little bit artsy, Federico is a film director or classical pianist waiting to happen.

65. Mirella

Means “to admire.” It’s lovely, understated, and sounds like a name you’d write in cursive with hearts.

66. Paolo

Cool, simple, and oh-so-smooth. Paolo is the guy who brings homemade pasta to the party.

67. Ornella

Rare and refined, Ornella means “flowering ash tree.” Nature-inspired and totally unique.

68. Corrado

A strong, noble name that sounds like someone who knows how to drive a manual car (with style).

69. Alessio

Charming and romantic, Alessio is a little more offbeat than Alessio’s cousin Alessandro, but just as lovely.

70. Donata

The feminine version of Donato, meaning “gift.” And honestly, that’s exactly what she is.

71. Cesare

Pronounced CHEZ-ah-ray, this regal name brings Caesar energy with a side of espresso.

72. Lelia

Delicate and rare, Lelia has vintage vibes and a sweet, melodic flow. Kind of like a lullaby in name form.

73. Daniele

The Italian form of Daniel, it’s friendly, familiar, but with that extra European charm.

74. Costanza

Strong and stately, Costanza means “steadfast.” Yes, it’s kind of like Constance, but way cooler.

75. Silvio

Smooth and commanding, Silvio gives off main-character energy in an Italian crime drama.

76. Teodora

This regal beauty means “gift of God.” Bonus: Teo makes an adorable nickname.

77. Enea

A bold, one-syllable name from Roman legend. If you want something brief, cool, and unique, this is it.

78. Clarissa

Elegant and dramatic, Clarissa sounds like a character in a vintage Italian opera (or your very poised toddler).

79. Elvira

Goth-glam and historic, Elvira means “truth.” For babies born with expressive eyebrows and quiet wisdom.

80. Giacomo

The Italian form of James, but with way more flair. (Fun fact: it’s pronounced JAH-ko-mo.)

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Did you know?

Italy has some of the most beautifully dramatic names in the world, and many Italian baby names double up as last names, too. So if your baby ends up with a name like <em>Giacomo Romano</em>, congrats: you’ve basically named a future poet laureate.<br>

81. Mariella

Meaning “star of the sea,” Mariella is a romantic blend of Maria and Ella, hello, dreamboat.

82. Emilio

Soft and strong at once, Emilio is a name that says, “Yes, I’m sensitive, and yes, I know how to parallel park.”

83. Flavia

Bright and sunny, Flavia means “golden-haired.” Perfect for your little ray of sunshine (literal or metaphorical).

84. Renato

A vintage favorite that means “reborn”, ideal for a fresh start or a baby who arrives after a long wait.

85. Sabina

A historical beauty, Sabina feels like she belongs in a fresco, and on a preschool roster.

86. Ottavio

Rooted in the number eight, Ottavio has Roman emperor vibes. It’s bold, rare, and unforgettable.

87. Violetta

A flowery twist on Violet, with extra flair. It’s a name that practically comes with its own soundtrack.

88. Leone

Meaning “lion,” Leone is fierce, loyal, and strong, just like your little king of the jungle gym.

89. Faustina

This old-school name means “fortunate”, and it has vintage goddess vibes that feel fresh again.

90. Alonzo

A romantic rebel of a name, Alonzo feels fast, dramatic, and ready for his close-up.

91. Isotta

A bold, medieval name that once belonged to queens and operas. Very regal, very rare.

92. Severino

Soft yet serious, Severino gives classic Italian drama, like a name in a beautifully sad novel.

93. Lavio

A unique alternative to Flavio or Fabio, Lavio has a lyrical, modern sound we’re loving.

94. Bellina

A twist on “bella,” Bellina means “little beauty.” It’s sweet, snappy, and irresistibly cute.

95. Raul

Short, strong, and effortlessly cool, Raul has that pan-European swagger that goes with anything.

96. Zeno

A sleek, mythological name with serious philosopher energy. Ideal for deep thinkers in tiny socks.

97. Loredana

Romantic and dreamy, Loredana feels like the name of someone who writes love songs in her diary.

98. Arturo

Noble, dashing, and with just enough drama to sound like the hero of a telenovela. (Yes, another Arturo, but with a slightly different flavor.)

99. Fedora

Not just a hat! Fedora is the Italian version of Theodora, and it’s full of vintage glamour.

100. Cosimo

Meaning “order” or “decency,” Cosimo is part philosopher, part stylish mini-me in overalls.

101. Amalia

Elegant, romantic, and timeless, Amalia dances between old-world grace and modern baby-name goals.

102. Eliano

Meaning “sun,” Eliano feels bright, rare, and totally ready to top your Italian baby names list.

103. Bruna

Earthy and warm, Bruna means “brown-haired.” It’s quietly confident and totally underused.

104. Tullio

Charming and offbeat, Tullio is like the fun uncle of Italian baby boy names, unexpected and unforgettable.

105. Serafina

Meaning “fiery” or “angelic,” Serafina has major celestial energy. A total star name with serious style.

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