5 Best Netflix Historical Drama Shows, Ranked

When it comes to the historical drama genre, Netflix has some top-notch selections on tap. Whether it’s a riveting period piece about criminal empires or a sweeping account of a royal family, Netflix’s array of history stories take place in a variety of different eras and explore a diverse range of themes. 

From long-running shows like “The Last Kingdom,” “Outlander,” and “Bridgerton,” to limited series such as “Godless,” there’s something for everyone who enjoys a fascinating depiction of the past. In addition to its original content, Netflix has made an effort to acquire historical shows that originally aired on other networks and platforms. Most notably, subscribers had access to HBO’s celebrated World War II miniseries “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific” from 2023 to 2025.

The greatest historical dramas on Netflix are more than straightforward retellings of true events, as they feature loads of action, romance, and compelling conflicts that blend reality with fiction. With all of that in mind, the following five titles represent the very best historical TV series available to stream on Netflix. 

5. The Crown

Ten years after “The Crown” premiered its first season on Netflix, it remains the epitome of prestige TV. The award-winning series chronicles the history of the British royal family over nearly six decades of Queen Elizabeth’s reign. Presenting a dramatized version of true events, all six seasons of “The Crown” are defined by their high production value, detailed depiction of historical eras, and stellar performances.

Led by Claire Foy, Matt Smith, and Vanessa Kirby for the first two seasons, “The Crown” enlisted tons of outstanding actors, including OliCrown” Seasons 5 and 6 drew a lot more criticism for its creative liberties compared to previous runs, but showrunner Peter Morgan still managed to create engaging interpersonal conflict and in-depth examinations of real-life royals throughout the majority of “The Crown”

Even those uninterested in the affairs of Britain’s most famous family should find “The Crown” an enjoyable viewing experience, as the series’ strengths far outweigh the likability of its main characters.

4. Narcos

“Narcos” is the perfect drama for anyone who loves history and wants an exhilarating gangster show. Taking place from the 1970s to the 1990s, the series centers on the rise of Pablo Escobar (Wagner Moura) in the Colombian drug trade and the fallout of his demise. “Narcos” follows Escobar and his associates, American Drug Enforcement Administration agents, and Colombian government figures during this brutal period in the country’s history. The cat-and-mouse game between Escobar and the forces striving to bring him down produces near-constant tension, heart-racing action, and thoughtful characterizations as “Narcos” illustrates the devastation of the war on all sides.

On top of the thrilling storyline, all three seasons are elevated by the series’ excellent acting. Moura’s performance as Escobar brings nuance to a complicated man, and Pedro Pascal commands the screen as the determined DEA agent Javier Peña. Even though “Narcos” isn’t spot-on when it comes to historical accuracy, the show remains an amazing binge-watch and one of Netflix’s best original series.

3. East of Eden

Netflix’s new limited series “East of Eden” wonderfully adapts John Steinbeck’s novel while offering a new perspective on the enigmatic character of Cathy Ames, brilliantly portrayed by Florence Pugh. Taking place from the late 19th century to World War I in California’s Salinas Valley, “East of Eden” fixates on the tragic lives of Cathy, Adam Trask (Christopher Abbott), and his half-brother Charles (Mike Faist). Consisting of seven episodes, “East of Eden” examines generations of misfortune through Cathy and Adam’s ill-fated marriage, Charles’ untimely death, and the troubled upbringings of twins Cal (Joseph Zada) and Aron Trask (Joe Anders).

Unlike its source material, the Netflix show puts Cathy front and center, uncovering her trauma-filled path to villainy and developing a much more sympathetic version of the murderous brothel owner. “East of Eden” is fueled by Pugh, who paints a vivid portrait of Cathy’s embattled psyche as she deceives one victim after another. For those unfamiliar with Steinbeck’s story, Netflix’s adaptation is an absorbing tale about trauma and family against the backdrop of a tumultuous period of history. At the same time, viewers already exposed to the book can enjoy a fresh, more complex take on its iconic characters.   

2. Vikings

“Vikings” is a must-watch for history buffs and TV lovers, as its story revolves around the Norse warrior Ragnar Lothbrok, his children, allies, and enemies during the early Middle Ages. While its battle sequences are brutal and breathtaking, the series largely impresses thanks to its fleshed-out character dynamics and ruthless power struggles in Scandina

Travis Fimmel shines as the relentless and sharp-witted Ragnar, while a capable supporting cast keeps “Vikings” an enjoyable ride from start to finish. Another highlight is Katheryn Winnick’s Lagertha, who leads and fights both alongside Ragnar and on her own. Others such as Ragnar and Lagertha’s son Bjorn (Alexander Ludwig), the mischievous ship-builder Floki (Gustaf Skarsgård), and the tenderhearted monk Athelstan (George Blagden) greatly contribute to a captivating storyline that never ceases to produce shocking plot twists or memorable moments. 

Although originally airing on History and Prime Video, “Vikings” is currently available to stream on Netflix. Not many TV shows can sustain a high-quality story for six seasons, thus the long-standing success of “Vikings” propels the series to a high ranking in the realm of historical dramas.

1. Peaky Blinders

The historical drama genre has rarely seen better than “Peaky Blinders,” which transports audiences to the gritty streets of early-20th century Birmingham, England. Focusing on powerful gang leader Tommy Shelby and his family, the BBC series generates a layered character study — which is made even more interesting by Cillian Murphy’s amazing lead performance. 

Tommy’s arc is the beating heart of “Peaky Blinders,” but his troublesome brother Arthur (Paul Anderson), business-savvy aunt Polly Gray (Helen McCrory), and ambitious young cousin Michael Gray (Finn Cole) turn out to be superbly written characters. Furthermore, “Peaky Blinders” deftly intertwines the cutthroat nature of the Shelby family’s criminal empire with the corrupt political landscape of the time period. The show even veers into psychological thriller territory at times, delving into Tommy’s deteriorating mental state as wartime trauma and incessant personal struggles catch up to him. 

As a result, “Peaky Blinders” creator Steven Knight delivers a masterclass in character drama that features just enough stunning visuals and action to remain entertaining for six seasons. Gruesome and unpredictable from its first episode to its cliffhanger series finale, “Peaky Blinders” will always be an essential viewing on Netflix.