5 Best Period Dramas to Binge on Netflix Right Now

What can you call a period drama? Well, nowadays the variety of shows that fall into the genre is so large that almost anything that is set in different times before ours can be called a period series. Watching these shows will take you to places you never knew existed and tell stories that will keep you hooked from the beginning.

If you're a fan of period dramas, Netflix offers an exceptional selection of series, from royal intrigue to thrilling real-life historical events. These shows offer an immersive experience full of complex characters, unique costumes, and never-ending drama — much better than just another working Wednesday, huh?

Here are five must-see period dramas perfect for a Netflix binge.

1. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023)

Whether you are a Bridgerton fan or not, checking out the spinoff is a must. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is a dazzling period drama that delves into the life of Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III. The show explores Charlotte's rise from German princess to Queen Consort of England.

What makes the series a standout is that it gently blends historical drama with the sweet romance of young people falling in love for the first time, and finding a way to fight all the problems together. We know that Charlotte's fate was not easy, and her relationship with George was complicated by his mental condition. But in their case, love conquered all.

“I loved Queen Charlotte and binged it within one night. Not a fan of Bridgerton but this show genuinely surprised me. The chemistry between leads was off the charts and that ending,”

Redditor CommonBelt2338 said.

2. The Empress (2022-)

Set in 19th century Europe, The Empress centers on the dramatic and tumultuous life of Elisabeth of Bavaria, who becomes Empress of Austria when she marries Emperor Franz Joseph. This German-language historical drama beautifully portrays the complex and often lonely life of an empress in a royal court full of expectations and intrigue.

The series offers an emotional look at Elisabeth's struggles, particularly with her marriage and the role she's forced to play as a royal. With lush costumes and stunning cinematography, The Empress is another perfect choice for period drama fans.

3. The Last Czars (2019)

Fans of docudramas say The Last Czars is the best in the genre. The six-part series chronicles the fall of the Romanov dynasty and offers an intimate portrait of the Russian royal family, culminating in the tragic end of Tsar Nicholas II and his family.

The Last Czars offers a unique perspective on the personal and political challenges the Romanovs faced in the early 20th century. The show's dramatic retelling of events such as the Russian Revolution provides often heartbreaking insight into history, making it a must-see for history buffs and drama lovers alike.

“The real footage is really fascinating. I’ve always thought that was part of the Romanovs’ appeal — they’re royal history, but we actually know exactly what they looked like, how they moved, their expressions; they were people not that different from you and me — not just oil portraits in a museum, if that makes sense,” Redditor Stitchescutfigures said.

4. The Queen’s Gambit (2020)

While not a traditional historical period drama, The Queen's Gambit is set in the mid-20th century. The limited series focuses on Beth Harmon, a young orphaned girl who rises to become a world-class chess player.

The series is a brilliant exploration of her complex psychological journey. If competition, addiction, and loneliness against the backdrop of the Cold War isn’t a perfect escapism recipe, we don’t know what is.

5. Blood, Sex & Royalty (2022-)

Now here is a bold and controversial docuseries that offers a fresh perspective on the lives of the British monarchy's most scandalous and intriguing royals. Through a mix of reenactments and interviews with historians, the series highlights the provocative lives of royals such as Anne Boleyn and Edward VIII.