BEST PERIOD DRAMAS ON NETFLIX: MINISERIES AND TV SHOWS (2022)
Over the past few years, the list of Netflix period dramas to watch has changed dramatically on the popular streaming service. At the same time, the selections have become more diverse, and the choices have increased.
These days, Netflix includes more original content from excellent period dramas worldwide, including Korean Historical Dramas and Romantic Spanish Dramas.
And while several British productions have moved on to Amazon Prime Video and BritBox, Netflix still has a few British period shows on Netflix, including beloved favorites like Call the Midwife and The Crown. Unfortunately, Downton Abbey is no longer streaming on Netflix.
RELATED: The 60 Best Period Dramas on Amazon Prime – Miniseries and TV Shows (2021)
So, for period drama aficionados who love a good historical (or historical fantasy) binge, this list is for you! As before, this list focuses on Miniseries and TV shows only.
For a list of historical films, head on over to our companion article: 50 Entertaining Period Pieces On Netflix To Watch – Movie Edition (2021).
I last updated what period dramas to watch on Netflix in March 2022. So, I thought now was the perfect moment to update this hopefully helpful list.
RELATED: The Top 40 Best Romantic Korean Dramas on Netflix to Watch (2022)
So, without further ado, here are 60 sensational period shows on Netflix to watch.
(The selection of dramas on this list primarily focuses on romantic or romanticized period dramas.)
Note: The first version of this post was first published in 2015, and it went viral! We subsequently published a new update in 2016. We have now made this page the permanent place for all the best period dramas on Netflix (miniseries and TV shows) to watch.
This current post was initially published in 2019 and was updated in 2022. These titles are available on Netflix in the US as of October 2022. Availability is subject to change.
For more period dramas to watch on streaming, see: The 20 Best Streaming Services to Watch Period Dramas (And What to Watch First)
60 BEST PERIOD DRAMAS ON NETFLIX – MINISERIES AND TV SHOWS (2022)
(IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER)
#1: Alias Grace (2017)
Netflix Synopsis: In 19th-century Canada, a psychiatrist weighs whether a murderess should be pardoned due to insanity. Based on Margaret Atwood’s award-winning novel.
Why You Should Check This Out: Road to Avonlea’s Sarah Polley adapted Margaret Atwood’s novel. Avonlea fans will also love seeing Mag Ruffman (Olivia) as a recurring character.
On a different note, Sarah Polley is a fantastic writer, and this series is no exception. I also loved seeing Zachary Levi in a period drama. Just don’t go into this one for romance.
Content: TV-MA but never feels vulgar or overly explicit. Furthermore, the director handles the assault and attempted abuse scenes tastefully. It’s more of a closed-door scenario.
There’s one graphic love scene near the show’s end, and violence is sprinkled throughout the series.
#2: Always a Witch (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: A young 17th-century witch time travels to the future to save the man she loves, but first must adjust to present-day Cartagena and defeat a dark rival.
Why You Should Check This Out: Who doesn’t love time-traveling stories about witches? The Colombian series takes place in both the present-day and the 17th century.
Content: TV-14.
#3: Anne with an E (2017)
Netflix Synopsis: A plucky orphan whose passions run deep finds an unlikely home with a spinster and her soft-spoken bachelor brother. Based on “Anne of Green Gables.”
Why You Should Check This Out: Okay, this particular period drama on Netflix doesn’t ‘much’ resemble the beloved books set on Prince Edward Island. Still, the characters are well-drawn out, and the production quality is excellent.
RELATED: 85 Period Dramas to Watch If You Love Anne of Green Gables
While some may have a hard time with plot points that deviate drastically from the novels, you can still enjoy this period drama as a separate entity.
On another Avonlea tidbit, R.H. Thompson (Jasper Dale) perfectly plays Matthew Cuthbert.
Anne with an E has sweet romances, outstanding characterization, and brilliant performances.
Content: TV-PG
#4: The Bonfire of Destiny (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: After a devastating fire in 1897 Paris, three women find their lives upended by betrayals, deceptions, and romantic turmoil. Inspired by real events.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you are fascinated (like me) by the best historical dramas set around famous historical events, you should like the French series, The Bonfire of Destiny.
The tragedy is the 1897 Bazar de la Charité, where numerous lives were lost.
Content: TV-MA for nudity, language, and smoking. This series is moderately explicit.
#5: Bridgerton (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you’re looking for a super binge-worthy series full of Jane Austen-like romances, brooding Byronic Heroes, and entertaining plot twists, this is the show for you. The show is based on the book series by Julia Quinn.
The first season of the Netflix period drama focuses on Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) and her romance with the swoony Duke (Regé-Jean Page).
For more about the series, check out our review:
Review: ‘Bridgerton’ Is A Period Piece That Paves The Way For Future Romance Adaptations
Content: Bridgerton is rated TV-MA for explicit love scenes, brief strong language, and nudity. While the explicit content is not continuous throughout, it is semi-frequent. Episode six is the most graphic.
The second season is much less graphic, with only a couple of lovemaking scenes and a couple of nude scenes.
#6: Cable Girls (2017)
Netflix Synopsis: In 1920s Madrid, four women at the National Telephone Company ring in revolution as they manage romance, friendship and the modern workplace.
Why You Should Check This Out: Spanish cinema puts out some fantastic period dramas. Don’t just take my word for it, though, and read our full review on why Cable Girls is one romantic period drama that’s definitely worth your time.
Content: This series ranges between TV-14 and TV-MA for explicit love scenes and nudity – the scenes are typically brief.
#7: Call the Midwife (2012)
Netflix Synopsis: This period drama set in impoverished East London in the 1950s follows a newly qualified midwife and her colleagues at a nursing convent.
Why You Should Check This Out: Not many TV shows focus primarily on female characters and deal with female problems. The show is about a group of midwives and nuns working to help the people of Poplar and maybe even themselves.
The stories can be heartbreaking, uplifting, and sometimes even romantic.
The standout in this is, of course, the hilarious Miranda Hart.
There aren’t enough words of love I can give this one! One of the most heartwarming and heartbreaking period dramas available.
RELATED | FIVE REASONS TO WATCH PERIOD DRAMA CALL THE MIDWIFE
Content: Call the Midwife is rated TV-14 primarily for realistic childbirth scenes.
#8: CATHEDRAL OF THE SEA (2017)
Netflix Synopsis: In 14th-century Barcelona, a serf’s determined climb to wealth and freedom incurs the disdain of the noble class and the suspicion of the Inquisition.
Why You Should Check This Out: Besides the intriguing premise, fans of the Grand Hotel will appreciate one of the stars, Aitor Luna. He is the real-life older brother of Yon Gonzalez – star of Grand Hotel and Cable Girls. Aitor is just as talented onscreen!
Content: TV-MA for a moderate amount of nudity/sensuality. There is violence and frightening, intense scenes.
Most of the explicit scenes are in episode four—however, some graphic content is in the series. There is an assault scene without nudity in episode seven.
#9: THE COOK OF CASTAMAR (2021)
Netflix Synopsis: In 1720 Madrid, a talented cook catches the eye of a widowed duke just as he returns to aristocratic society. Based on the novel by Fernando J. Munez.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you enjoy soapy romantic period dramas like Grand Hotel, you’ll likely love this Spanish period drama.
Content: TV-MA for some explicit love scenes and nudity. Be warned; this series does have explicit content.
#10: THE CROWN (2016)
Netflix Synopsis: This drama follows the political rivalries and romance of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign and the events that shaped the second half of the 20th century.
Why You Should Check This Out: While the first episode is slow, the series picks up. The Crown has excellent production quality, gorgeous costumes, sufficient detail for historical accuracy (even when hugely embellishing the royals’ lives), and brilliant performances from all actors and actresses (including Claire Foy and Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth II) involved.
Everyone is perfectly cast for these well-known historical and famous figures, including Matt Smith (Prince Philip), Gillian Anderson, and more. It’s one of the best historical series on Netflix.
Content: TV-MA. There is brief nudity, infrequent use of the F word sprinkled throughout the whole series, and one episode (season 2, episode 7) with a very explicit scene (if this bothers you, you can easily skip the sequence). Overall, the series feels like TV-14 most of the time.
#11: The Crowned Clown (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: Standing in for an unhinged Joseon king, a look-alike clown plays the part but increasingly becomes devoted to protecting the throne and the people.
Why You Should Check This Out: The Crowned Clown is an entertaining Korean historical drama full of romance and melodrama, and it has a great cast.
Content: TV-14
#12: Cursed (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: Armed with mysterious powers and a legendary sword, young rebel Nimue joins forces with charming mercenary Arthur on a mission to save her people.
Why You Should Check This Out: This period fantasy is a flawed but fun watch – especially if you love Arthurian tales. If you like Byronic Heroes, you’ll also want to watch for the intriguing characterization of Merlin.
While the series sometimes suffers from bad dialogue and a mediocre romance, the second half of the series improves, ending on a shocking cliffhanger.
Content: TV-MA for violence and sensuality.
Cursed struggles to figure out what it wants to be. On the one hand, it feels like a sweet teen romance; on the other, the battle scenes are excessively gory and don’t match the rest of the series.
#13: DC’S Legends of Tomorrow (2016)
Netflix Synopsis: A mysterious “time master” from the future unites an unlikely group of superheroes and villains to save the world from a powerful evil.
Why You Should Check This Out: While Legends of Tomorrow is a fantasy series, the characters often visit historical periods due to the time travel premise – albeit without much accuracy.
You’ll likely appreciate this enjoyable superhero series if you enjoy shows like Doctor Who, Timeless, or quirky comedy shows.
The first season drags slightly but improves over time as the series finds its voice. You also won’t want to miss Brandon Routh (Superman) as Ray Palmer. His character is lovable and sweet and will leave you with a smile.
Content: TV-14.
#14: Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: Eight stories celebrating family, faith, love and forgiveness come to life in this series inspired by Dolly Parton’s iconic country music catalog.
Why You Should Check This Out: A couple of the stories are period dramas! Overall, the series is heartwarming and lovely, and you shouldn’t miss it if you appreciate uplifting drama, good music, and Dolly Parton.
Content: TV-14.
#15: Dracula (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: The Count Dracula legend transforms with new tales that flesh out the vampire’s gory crimes – and bring his vulnerability into the light.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you enjoy Steven Moffat as a writer (Sherlock, Doctor Who), you might like his strange adaptation of Dracula. It was a bit too odd for me, but it has excellent production quality with fantastic actors.
Content: TV-14 for violence and frightening situations.
#16: The English Game (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: Two 19th-century footballers on opposite sides of a class divide navigate professional and personal turmoil to change the game—and England—forever.
Why You Should Check This Out: Based on a true story, The English Game is a fabulous series from Downton Abbey’s Julian Fellowes. It has excellent characterization, fantastic writing, and lovely romances.
It’s one of the best period dramas on this list and shouldn’t be missed.
#17: The Ghost Bride (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: In 1890s Malacca, Li Lan finds herself in the afterlife and becomes mired in a mystery linked to the sinister, deceased son of a wealthy family.
Why You Should Check This Out: This series is based on a bestselling novel and is a lot of fun. While the costumes aren’t period-accurate, you’ll likely appreciate this newer show if you enjoy paranormal romance and historical fantasy.
Content: TV-14.
#18: THE GLAMOROUS IMPERIAL CONCUBINE (2011)
Netflix Synopsis: An exiled princess who is loved by three emperors tries to reclaim her family’s throne amid political turmoil and intrigue in 10th century China.
Why You Should Check This Out: This Chinese period drama is based on a popular book and is perfect for anyone who loves royal-based period dramas with lots of romance!
Content: TV-PG
#19: High Seas (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: Two sisters discover disturbing family secrets after a string of mysterious deaths occur on a luxury ship traveling from Spain to Brazil in the 1940s.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you’re a fan of historical mysteries with lots of romance and like shows like Grand Hotel, you will adore High Seas. It’s an addictive period romance series with great acting and has stories that will hook you from the first episode.
Sadly, Netflix canceled the series after three seasons.
Content: TV-MA, but it should be TV-14. It’s mild.
#20: HYMN OF DEATH (2018)
Netflix Synopsis: During the Japanese colonial period, married playwright Kim U-jin falls in love with soprano Yun Sim-deok, one of Korea’s notable New Women.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you’re a fan of Korean dramas or tragic romance stories, this is the miniseries for you.
Content: TV-14
#21: The Irregulars (2021)
Netflix Synopsis: A crew of misfits investigates a series of supernatural crimes in Victorian London for Dr. Watson and his shadowy associate, Sherlock Holmes.
Why You Should Check This Out: This series is perfect for fans of Victorian mysteries and everything Sherlock. It’s a new twist on the story. Unfortunately, Netflix has already canceled the series.
Content: TV-14
#22: The King’s Affection (2021)
Netflix Synopsis: When the crown prince [dies], his twin sister assumes the throne while trying to keep her identity and affection for her first love a royal secret.
Why You Should Check This Out: It’s all a bit Shakespearean and romantic, with excellent production values. Kdrama fans will love this historical drama as it gives you everything you could want.
Content: TV-14 for violence.
#23: The Little Nyonya (2009)
Netflix Synopsis: An orphaned Chinese woman in Singapore refuses to yield to her lowly station in life, setting her family on a tumultuous course for generations.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you enjoy Cinderella stories, you should give it a chance. It was hugely popular when it aired and included a swoony romance! The series takes place in both the present and the past.
Content: TV-14.
#24: Luna Nera (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: In 17th-century Italy, a teenager learns about her destiny among a family of witches, just as her boyfriend’s father hunts her down for witchcraft.
Why You Should Check This Out: It might be worth checking out if you enjoy historical fantasies about witches and paranormal teen romances.
Content: TV-MA for nudity.
#25: Luna Park (2021)
Netflix Synopsis: In 1960s Rome, a free-spirited young woman who’s grown up at her family’s circus unexpectedly discovers she belongs to two very different worlds.
Why You Should Check This Out: This Italian period drama brings an intriguing twist to stories about twins.
Content: TV-MA for a moderate amount of language and nudity.
#26: Medici (2016)
Netflix Synopsis: In 15th-century Renaissance Florence, the visionary Medici dynasty flexes its power in politics and the arts, risking its rivals’ lethal opposition.
Why You Should Check This Out: It has a fantastic cast: Richard Madden, Dustin Hoffman, Sean Bean, and Julian Sands, to name a few.
Content: TV-14/TV-MA. While it’s typically TV-14 elsewhere, there are extended explicit scenes on Netflix.
#27: Merlin (2008)
Netflix Synopsis: This family-oriented retelling of the King Arthur legend finds Merlin arriving in Camelot, where he hones his magic skills with the help of his uncle.
Why You Should Check This Out: Yes, sometimes Merlin can get COMPLETELY ridiculous, but that’s why we love it! Not unlike Smallville, Merlin follows a young Merlin, Arthur, Morgana, and Gwen before their destinies as we know them.
Worthy of note: possibly the hottest Lancelot of all-time guest stars every once in a while (okay, maybe Santiago Cabrera ties with Ioan Gruffudd), and Anthony Stewart Head of Buffy fame, plays the sometimes villainous and hilarious Uther.
Content: TV-PG.
#28: Midnight at the Pera Palace (2022)
Netflix Synopsis: A curious journalist time-travels to 1919 Istanbul, where she must solve a murder mystery and forestall a plot against an important political figure.
Why You Should Check This Out: It’s an entertaining time travel series with elements of Agatha Christie and the promise of romance in an intriguing setting.
Content: TV-14.
#29: Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Netflix Synopsis: A young boy who ends up in the U.S. after the 1871 Shinmiyangyo incident returns to Korea at a historical turning point and falls for a noblewoman.
Why You Should Check This Out: Netflix is now distributing high-budget Korean Dramas. So, if you love historical Korean romances, this epic series from Goblin’s creator is a must-see!
Content: Mr. Sunshine is TV-MA for scenes of violence. No gore and nothing too explicit.
#30: My Country: The New Age (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: At the end of the Goryeo period, there were those who led the charge to proclaim a new age – and the ordinary individuals who risked everything.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you love historical K-Dramas, you’ll likely enjoy this uplifting drama series. It has romance and melodrama and is sure to keep you hooked!
Content: TV-14
#31: My Sassy Girl (2017)
Netflix Synopsis: A refined young Joseon scholar’s life turns upside down after he rescues a drunk princess who later accuses him of taking something precious from her.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you’re in the mood for romance, this fun Korean series is worth watching!
Content: TV-14
#32: Once Upon a Time (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: Fighting to save his ancestors’ mansion from demolition, Youssef unpacks a series of love stories that took place there with a journalist.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you’re a fan of romantic foreign-language TV series like Grand Hotel, give this one a try!
Content: TV-14
#33: OUTLANDER (2014)
Netflix Synopsis: The epic tale adapted From Diana Gabaldon’s popular series of fantasy-romance novels focuses on the drama of two time-crossed lovers.
Why You Should Check This Out: Watch if you’re a fan of Diana Gabaldon’s bestselling novels, watch for the epic love story between Claire and Jamie Fraser and the excellent production. We warn that this series is very graphic, but it has a powerful love story.
Content: TV-MA. Outlander is full of explicit content, which is sometimes gratuitous.
#34: The Princess Weiyoung (2016)
Netflix Synopsis: A princess descended from a ruined noble family disguises herself as the woman who saved her life and embarks on a mission to avenge her loved ones.
Why You Should Check This Out: This Chinese period drama series was one of the top Chinese series in 2016! Watch for romance, gorgeous costumes, and an entertaining plot.
Content: TV-14.
#35: The Queen and the Conqueror (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: Years after Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia betrayed her people and broke her heart, indigenous woman Catalina reenters his life to get revenge.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you love telenovelas, you might like this Colombian series set in the 16th century. It’s not historically accurate, but it’s not meant to be.
Content: TV-14.
#36: THE QUEEN’S GAMBIT (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: In a 1950s orphanage, a young girl reveals an astonishing talent for chess and begins an unlikely journey to stardom while grappling with addiction.
Why You Should Check This Out: This Netflix original limited series is brilliantly produced, written, and acted.
Part Jane Eyre, part A Star is Born, this period drama series is must-see television with a brilliant performance from Anya Taylor-Joy and some fabulous historical costumes.
Content: TV-MA for language.
#37: Rebellion (2016)
Netflix Synopsis: Dublin’s violent Easter Rising of 1916 ignites a long and bloody conflict between British military forces and Irish revolutionary fighters.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you’re interested in learning about Irish history, you should check out this drama series. It has a great cast and good production values.
Content: TV-MA (mild overall but still has full nudity, violence, and language).
#38: Resurrection: Ertugrul (2014)
Netflix Synopsis: When a good deed unwittingly endangers his clan, a 13th-century Turkish warrior agrees to fight a sultan’s enemies in exchange for new tribal land.
Why You Should Check This Out: This is a top-rated Turkish series. While it has some similarities to Game of Thrones (with less explicit content), it has a more spiritual tone.
Content: TV-14.
#39: The Rise of Phoenixes (2018)
Netflix Synopsis: When a secret from the past rears its head, a respected court scholar must choose between avenging her family and staying true to the prince she loves.
Why You Should Check This Out: This Chinese historical drama is perfect for those of us who love sweeping royal romances.
Content: TV-14
#40: Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: Free spirit Goo Hae-ryung embarks on a new life as a scholar in the Joseon royal court after hearing about a government post for women historians.
Why You Should Check This Out: Rookie Historian is an addictive romantic kdrama series you won’t want to miss. This is pure period drama escapism.
Content: TV-14 (mild).
#41: Selena: The Series (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: Iconic Mexican-American performer Selena rises to fame as she and her family make sacrifices in order to achieve their lifelong dreams.
Why You Should Check This Out: It’s a lovely tribute to Selena and pulls back the curtain on Selena and her family and friends.
This popular series follows the Quintanilla family from the 1960s to the 1990s and is worth watching.
Content: TV-PG
#42: Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madame C.J. Walker (2020)
Netflix Synopsis: An African American washerwoman rises from poverty to build a beauty empire and become the first female self-made millionaire.
Why You Should Check This Out: If you don’t go in expecting historical accuracy, you’ll love this inspirational series. It has an uplifting feel while also being super entertaining.
Another good reason to watch is that Octavia Spencer is fabulous in the lead role.
Content: TV-MA for language (brief) and one brief explicit scene in episode three. Overall, most episodes feel closer to TV-14.
#43: A Series of Unfortunate Events (2017)
Netflix Synopsis: The extraordinary Baudelaire orphans face trials, tribulations and the evil Count Olaf in their fateful quest to unlock long-held family secrets.
Why You Should Check This Out: Okay, so this isn’t exactly a period drama, but the series feels out of time, so I thought I’d include it. Watch this one if you like ironic wit in the style of Pushing Daisies.
Content: TV-PG.
#44: Shadow and Bone (2021)
Netflix Synopsis: Dark forces conspire against orphan mapmaker Alina Starkov when she unleashes an extraordinary power that could change the fate of her war-torn world.
Why You Should Check This Out: Shadow and Bone is technically a fantasy series, but it is significantly influenced by period dramas and looks like one with a Russian style.
Watch this for the very entertaining Ben Barnes as the Byronic villain. He’s just so good in the role.
Content: TV-14 for language and violence.
#45: Stories by Rabindranath Tagore (2015)
Netflix Synopsis: The writings of Nobel Prize winner Rabindranath Tagore come to life in this collection of tales set in early-20th-century Bengal.
Why You Should Check This Out: The stories focus on female empowerment and are set in early 20th-century Bengal, a setting not often explored in period dramas.
Content: TV-14
#46: Stranger Things (2016)
Netflix Synopsis: When a young boy vanishes, a small town uncovers a mystery involving secret experiments, terrifying supernatural forces and one strange little girl.
Why You Should Check This Out: Stranger Things is paranormal period fare at its best starring Winona Ryder. Check out this 1980s drama if you love the supernatural or films like The Goonies!
Content: While rated TV-14 overall, there are a few gory scenes that can make you queasy.
#47: A Touch of Green (2015)
Netflix Synopsis: Amid the turmoil of China’s civil war, families of Kuomintang pilots face the pain of leaving their homes but find strength in their shared bonds.
Why You Should Check This Out: It’s an award-winning Taiwanese drama series about three women. It takes place between the years 1945 to 1971.
Content: TV-MA for language and smoking. Mild.
#48: Traitors (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: As World War II ends, a young English woman agrees to help an enigmatic American agent root out Russian infiltration of the British government.
Why You Should Check This Out: Spies and Keeley Hawes during the post-world war make for a great mix!
Content: TV-MA for a moderate amount of explicit content and profanity.
#49: The Umbrella Academy (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: Reunited by their father’s death, estranged siblings with extraordinary powers uncover shocking family secrets — and a looming threat to humanity.
Why You Should Check This Out: Look, this is a weird show, so you have to like weird. But it’s super entertaining. (I binged this one in a few days.)
And while this isn’t exactly a period drama, there were undoubtedly traces of it in season one’s alternate history. Moreover, one of the characters can time travel (he ends up in the 1950s at one point.)
Season two takes place entirely in the past when the team time travels and gets stuck.
Content: TV-14.
#50: THE ORIGINALS (2013)
Netflix Synopsis: The Mikaelsons move to New Orleans and form an alliance with local witches in an effort to rule the city once again in this “Vampire Diaries” spinoff.
Why You Should Check This Out: Like all good vampire stories, there are several flashbacks to the past from ancient times forward! We’re dealing with immortals, after all.
If you like romance, dark Byronic Heroes, and edge-of-your-seat entertainment, you’ll want to watch this entertaining paranormal romance show.
There’s never really a dull moment in either one. Is anyone else missing Klaus Mikaelson?
RELATED | THE TOP 50 BEST LOVABLE ROGUES IN FILM AND TELEVISION
I also recommend checking out Legacies, the spinoff series about Klaus’ daughter, Hope. There aren’t many flashbacks to the past, though.
Content: TV-14 for vampire violence and sensuality.
#51: Velvet/Velvet Coleccion (2014/2017)
Netflix Synopsis (Velvet): In 1950s Spain, the heir to a fashion house romances a beautiful seamstress who works for the company, despite the objections of his family.
Netflix Synopsis (Velvet Collection): In the late ’60s, fashion designer Ana enlists friends Clara, Pedro and Raúl to open a store and design school in Barcelona in this “Velvet” spinoff.
Why You Should Check This Out: Another Spanish import, Velvet is a classic class divide love story set in the 1950s and ’60s that will make you swoon. The production values are also fantastic in both.
Content: TV-14.
52: YANXI PALACE: PRINCESS ADVENTURES (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: A determined Qing dynasty princess contends with palace intrigue and a vendetta against her family while navigating the treacherous terrain of romance.
Why You Should Check This Out: It’s full of royal intrigue, romance, gorgeous costumes, and good writing. This Chinese series is a must-watch if you enjoy royal period dramas emphasizing romance.
Content: TV-14 (mild).
#53: The Empress (2022)
Netflix Synopsis: As Emperor Franz Joseph faces growing political tensions, his spirited wife Elizabeth meets challenges at court and must learn who she can really trust.
Why You Should Check This Out: The Empress is a lush, gorgeous production with beautiful set decorations and sets, high production quality, romance, and costumes.
If you enjoy historically based royal series like The Crown and Victoria, you might like this one. Just don’t expect historical accuracy and think of it as entertaining historical fiction.
Content: TV-MA for a moderate amount of nudity and explicit sensuality.
#54: Heirs to the Land (2022)
Netflix Synopsis: Hugo Llor’s wine was coveted by the king of Spain himself…which made it that much easier for the winemaker to exact his revenge.
Why You Should Check This Out: Yon González stars in this Cathedral of the Sea sequel. Watch this one if you love epic period pieces from Spain.
Content: TV-MA for violence, assault, language, sensuality, and nudity.
#55: Alchemy of Souls (2022)
Netflix Synopsis: A powerful sorceress in a blind woman’s body encounters a man from a prestigious family, who wants her help to change his destiny.
Why You Should Check This Out: The famous Hong Sisters are back with another memorable Korean drama series. It’s a historical fantasy show with lots of romance.
Content: TV-14 for intense scenes.
#56: 100 Days My Prince (2018)
Netflix Synopsis: Upon losing his memory, a crown prince encounters a commoner’s life and experiences unforgettable love as the husband to Joseon’s oldest bachelorette.
Why You Should Check This Out: When you’re in the mood for something fluffy and lighthearted, consider 100 Days My Prince. It’s a popular period rom-com with numerous swoony moments.
Content: TV-14 (mild).
#57: Under The Queen’s Umbrella (2022)
Netflix Synopsis: A spirited queen tries to rein in her rowdy sons in order to make one of them the next king of Joseon, while her competitors vide to snatch the throne.
Why You Should Check This Out: It’s a brand-new historical Korean drama with lots of potential. New episodes release on Saturdays.
Content: TV-14
#58: Reply 1988 (2015)
Netflix Synopsis: Take a nostalgic trip back to the late 1980s through the lives of five families and their five teenage kids living in a small neighborhood in Seoul.
Why You Should Check This Out: Reply 1988 is a nostalgic series set in the late ’80s about family and love and is a beloved Korean drama amongst fans and critics.
Content: TV-14
#59 Firefly Lane (2021)
Netflix Synopsis: Growing up is tough – first loves, jobs, heartbreak. BFFs Tully and Kate weather it together in this drama based on Kristin Hannah’s bestselling novel.
Why You Should Check This Out: Katherine Heigl and Sarah Chalke star in this emotional series about friendship. The show’s time period takes place between 1970 to the 2000s.
Content: TV-MA for a moderate amount of profanity, drug use, and explicit sensuality. There is also a brief disturbing assault scene.
#60 Roswell, New Mexico (2019)
Netflix Synopsis: After 10 years, a woman returns to her sleepy hometown and discovers her high-school crush is also an unusual foreigner.
Why You Should Check This Out: While it is nowhere near the same level of quality as the original series, it has the entertainment factor and lots of romance. The show also improves a lot after season 1.
While it mainly occurs in the modern day, numerous flashback episodes take place in the 1940s.
Also, expect to see important (but minor) recurring characters played by Roswell alumni Jason Behr and Shiri Appleby. And good news, the fourth season is now available.
Content: TV-14 for some language, mild violence, racism, and sensuality.
BONUS: EVEN MORE PERIOD DRAMAS ON NETFLIX
Here are some extra period dramas you may want to check out!
As said above, The Silver Petticoat Review typically focuses on romantic period dramas (or romanticized). We also gave preference to the series without excessive explicit content, minus a few exceptions.
There are also some period dramas I haven’t seen, didn’t love, or don’t know enough about.
So, judge for yourself based on your preferences.
- Against the Ice (TV-MA)
- Anatomy of a Scandal (TV-MA)
- The Arthdal Chronicles (TV-MA)
- Autumn Girl (TV-MA)
- Babylon Berlin (TV-MA)
- Barbarians (TV-MA)
- Bolivar (TV-MA)
- The Borgias (TV-MA)
- Bulgasal: Immortal Souls (part historical fantasy – looks good!) (TV-MA)
- Cairo Class (TV-14)
- The Club (TV-MA)
- Damnation (TV-MA)
- The Defeated (TV-MA)
- Derry Girls (TV-MA)
- Eternal Love (TV-14)
- Flowers (TV-MA)
- Freud (TV-MA)
- Frontier (TV-MA)
- Godless (TV-MA)
- Hache (TV-MA)
- Halston (TV-MA)
- The Haunting of Bly Manor (TV-MA)
- Hollywood (TV-MA)
- Jaguar (TV-MA)
- Kingdom (TV-MA)
- Kingdom: Ashin of the North (TV-MA)
- Knightfall (TV-MA)
- La Revolution (TV-MA)
- The Last Bastion (TV-MA)
- The Last Czars (TV-MA)
- Last Kingdom (Matthew Macfadyen guest stars!) (TV-MA)
- Legend of the White Snake (TV-14)
- The Letter for the King (TV-PG)
- The Liberator (TV-MA)
- Love Between Fairy and Devil (TV-PG)
- Marco Polo (TV-MA)
- The New Legends of Monkey (TV-PG)
- Norsemen (TV-MA)
- Oktoberfest: Beer & Blood (TV-MA)
- Once Upon a Time in Lingjian Mountain (TV-14)
- Peaky Blinders (stars Cillian Murphy) (TV-MA)
- Qin Empire: Alliance (TV-14)
- Ratched (TV-MA)
- Thieves of the Wood (TV-MA)
- Troy: Fall of a City (TV-MA)
- Versailles (TV-MA)
- Vikings: Valhalla (TV-MA)
- You Are My Spring (contemporary series, but it does include period flashbacks) (TV-14)
- When They See Us (TV-MA)
- Who Rules The World (TV-PG)
- The Witcher (TV-MA)
- Word of Honor (TV-14)
Coming Soon: Wednesday, 1899
What period dramas on Netflix will you be binging this weekend? Sound off below…
PIN THIS ARTICLE! AND MAKE SURE TO FOLLOW US ON PINTEREST.
Loved this, much needed for us binge watchers 🙂
But please do a little more review on Versailles, it’s truly an amazing series with breathtaking scenery and love stories to die for, literally.
Hugs!!
How come no mention of Emperor. ki ,Marco Polo, Reign the last kingdom and Tudor pls review them and suggest some in this league
Many of these are mentioned on page 2. That said, we promote less explicit content on this website.
Versailles should not be reviewed by Silver Petticoat Review because it doesn’t follow the guidelines given in the Old-Fashioned Romance 101 article of this site. Please read the article here (https://www.silverpetticoatreview.com/about/old-fashioned-romance-101/). You will find the necessary information in the part titled “Old-Fashioned Romance Checklist – As Defined By Us”.
Versailles is a very controversial series. Even on IMDb they offer an extensive list of sexual, violent, and intense scenes that can be read here (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3830558/parentalguide).
What no Ertugral? My husband and I watched every episode (and there are over 250 of them!) in 6 months of this Turkish show. Some bad translation in the first season (humourous) but the costuming, historical background and gorgeous leading man are spectacular. This is why they created Netflix!!!!
Thanks for the recommendation! I haven’t heard of this one before. 🙂
Arthdal Chronicles is a must see
North & South is not on Netflix!!
Sadly, they just took it off Netflix a few days ago.
As a fan of American history, I really enjoyed Turn when it aired on AMC. It’s based on the real life Culper spy ring, although liberties are taken. It gets a bit soapy in the romances, but the characterization is pretty good and the plot has a lot of twists and turns.
This is a show I meant to get back into! I watched the first few episodes when it first aired and then somehow got behind and stopped watching. I love the actors and it definitely seemed like a good series!
Why do you consider a show about the 80’s a period drama and not #38: SELF MADE: INSPIRED BY THE LIFE OF MADAME C.J. WALKER (2020)?
We do consider Self-Made a period drama. I’m not sure why you think we said otherwise. It’s on the list. However, we did say the series is not historically accurate, but that doesn’t stop it from being a period drama.
Please add if the foreign are in English, we just cannot do sub titles and there are a lot of shows listed we would like to see.Thank you
Thanks for the feedback! We will consider doing that in a future update of the article.
Another fantsatic period drama is Mindhunter. Set in the 70s, it’s a crime investigation/ criminal psychology TV show on Netflix (does have periodic nudity/gore due to the subject matter) with a side of romance. Loved it. Another one is Bletchley Circle: San Francisco. 4 female codebreakers in the 1950s (!!) try to solve murders, also with a side of romance. Ugh, I loved the lush 50s setting; much like Queen’s Gambit. Do check these out!
Mindhunter sounds good! I will have to check it out. 🙂 I thought Bletchley Circle: San Francisco was exclusive to BritBox so I will have to check that out and keep that in mind for future updates of this page! Thanks. 🙂
We are looking for a list of series/dramas set from the 40s-70s around women who are growing with the times – set in college then following them as they stay connected and live their lives. There is romance but it’s more of the modern kind which may not involve traditional marriage and includes career women, one who find their new sexuality and activism…is there such a list?
We have not created that list but it is a good idea for something in the future. 🙂
Are there any other dramas that are more like Poldark? Or maybe even a list of dramas based off of romance novels? I just really want something so romantic that knocks me off my feet? I love knights in shinning armor (Im sorry I know Im a woman blah blah blah feminism hooray,..but I loved the whole being rescued), nothing raunchy or something that takes it too far sex scene wise?…..Man I feel embarrassed and stupid even writing that…but that’s how I feel and the rest of my sisters and family.
Hey! We feel the same. That’s what our site is all about. To start, check out this list we made: https://www.silverpetticoatreview.com/poldark-addiction/