Top 20 Shows Like The Tudors: From The Borgias to The Spanish Princess and more

It has been about 18 years since The Tudors premiered and captivated viewers with its lavish sets, intriguing storylines, and commendable acting. Over four seasons, the show explored the life of King Henry VIII, the second Tudor emperor. From the challenges he faced to the romances he had, this dramatization had it all. 

The show tends to linger on, even after watching it. So, what should you do now to solve the gaping Tudor-sized hole in your heart? This list dives into the best shows that capture the essence of The Tudors, whether through regal power struggles (The Crown), gripping period authenticity (Wolf Hall), or strong-willed queens (The Spanish Princess). But which show claims the top spot? Check out the full list below to find out!

20. The White Queen (2013)

Where to Watch: Prime Video
Number of Seasons: 1
Cast: Rebecca Ferguson, Amanda Hale, Faye Marsay

Set during the War of the Roses, The White Queen follows the rise of Elizabeth Woodville, a commoner who becomes queen through her marriage to King Edward IV. With courtly intrigue, betrayals, and power struggles, the show keeps you hooked across 10 episodes. Rebecca Ferguson delivers a bold and captivating performance, while Max Irons shines as the charismatic yet conflicted Edward.

If you love The Tudors, this series offers a similarly lavish take on historical drama, complete with stunning costumes and rich period details. While not without historical inaccuracies, its gripping storytelling and atmospheric visuals make it a must-watch for Tudor-era fans.

19. The White Princess (2017)

Where to Watch: Prime Video and Starz
Number of Seasons: 1
Cast: Jodie Comer, Rebecca Benson, Jacob Collins, Kenneth Cranham

This gripping sequel to The White Queen follows Elizabeth of York and Henry VII as they navigate a politically charged marriage meant to unite a fractured England. Their relationship is filled with tension, ambition, and betrayal, with Jodie Comer and Jacob Collins-Levy delivering fierce and compelling performances. The show also delves into the intriguing theory that Margaret Beaufort orchestrated the fate of the princes in the Tower.

If you enjoyed The Tudors, The White Princess offers the same blend of royal drama, stunning costumes, and lavish cinematography. While it plays with historical accuracy, its storytelling and intrigue make it an irresistible watch for fans of Tudor-era power struggles.

18. The Spanish Princess (2019-2020)

Where to Watch: Prime Video, Starz, and Hulu
Number of Seasons: 2
Cast: Charlotte Hope, Alicia Borrachero, Andrew Buchan

Catherine of Aragon’s rise from a determined young princess to Queen of England is filled with love, betrayal, and fierce ambition. Charlotte Hope shines as the intelligent and passionate Catherine, delivering a performance that keeps you invested in her journey. With courtly drama, shifting alliances, and high-stakes romance, the series pulls you deep into its world.

Lavish costumes, striking cinematography, and a gripping narrative make this a must-watch for history enthusiasts. While it plays with historical details, the show’s emotional intensity and complex characters make it an unforgettable royal saga.

17. Atlantic Crossing (2020)

Where to Watch: Prime Video and Apple TV
Number of Seasons: 1
Cast: Sofia Helin, Kyle MacLachlan, Tobias Santelmann, Søren Pilmark

This historical drama explores the fascinating but little-known relationship between Crown Princess Märtha of Norway and President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II. With exceptional performances, especially in deeply emotional moments like Mrs. Roosevelt’s advice to the Crown Prince, the show captures the human side of war and diplomacy.

A slow-burn masterpiece, Atlantic Crossing is perfect for history lovers who appreciate intricate storytelling and authentic performances. The carefully chosen cast brings depth to their roles, making every scene feel immersive and realistic. If you enjoy richly detailed historical dramas, this one is a must-watch.

16. The Borgias (2011-2013)

Where to Watch: Hulu and Paramount Plus
Number of Seasons: 3
Cast: Jeremy Irons, François Arnaud, Holliday Grainger, Joanne Whalley 

Power, corruption, and ruthless ambition take center stage in The Borgias, a gripping drama about one of the most influential families in 15th-century Rome. Rodrigo Borgia’s relentless pursuit of the papacy leads to scandal, betrayal, and bloodshed, with his children navigating their own dangerous paths. The show doesn’t hold back on its portrayal of political maneuvering, forbidden desires, and the dark side of power.

If you loved The Tudors, The Borgias offers the same mix of historical grandeur, scandalous affairs, and cutthroat politics. But where The Tudors explores the English court, this series dives into the ruthless world of the Vatican, making it just as thrilling but with an added layer of religious intrigue.

15. Downton Abbey (2010-2015)

Where to Watch: Prime Video, Apple TV, and Peacock TV
Number of Seasons: 5
Cast: Elizabeth McGovern, Rob James-Collier, Phyllis Logan

Scandal, power struggles, and shifting loyalties—Downton Abbey may not have executions or royal affairs, but its drama is just as intoxicating. Set in the early 20th century, it follows the aristocratic Crawley family and their devoted servants as they navigate a world in upheaval. From the Titanic disaster to World War I and the crumbling British class system, every moment is packed with intrigue, heartbreak, and ambition.

For fans of The Tudors, Downton Abbey offers a different kind of political battlefield—one of whispered betrayals, calculated marriages, and class wars. It trades swords for sharp dialogue and courtly scandals for aristocratic drama, but the stakes are just as high. If you crave historical storytelling that’s rich, riveting, and full of unforgettable characters, you won’t be able to look away.

14. World Without End (2012)

Where to Watch: Prime Video
Number of Seasons: 1
Cast: Cynthia Nixon, Miranda Richardson, Ben Chaplin

Betrayal, war, and a deadly plague—World Without End pulls you into the chaos of 14th-century England. After the assassination of their king, the people of Kingsbridge are left to navigate the brutality of the Hundred Years' War and the horrors of the Black Death. 

Meanwhile, behind castle walls, power-hungry nobles manipulate events to serve their own ambitions, no matter the cost. With a raw and unfiltered take on history, this series refuses to glorify monarchs, instead exposing the suffering of ordinary people caught in the storm of political greed.

If you loved The Tudors for its ruthless political games and high-stakes drama, World Without End delivers the same intensity but in a world crumbling under war and disease. The power struggles are just as deadly, and the betrayals cut just as deep—only this time, survival isn’t guaranteed.

13. Wolf Hall (2015) & Wolf Hall 2 (2024)

Where to Watch: PBS Masterpiece
Number of Seasons: 2
Cast: Mark Rylance, Damian Lewis, Claire Foy

Not everyone is born into power—some must seize it. Wolf Hall tells the gripping rise of Thomas Cromwell, a blacksmith’s son who defies the rigid class system to become King Henry VIII’s chief minister. While navigating the treacherous world of court politics, Cromwell faces constant reminders of his humble origins from those who refuse to accept him. With an atmosphere steeped in realism, stunning performances, and an intimate look at history’s behind-the-scenes maneuvering, this miniseries is a slow-burning masterpiece that demands your attention.

For those who love The Tudors but crave something grittier, Wolf Hall offers a more serious and historically faithful take on Henry VIII’s reign. Here, the king is not a reckless playboy but a calculating ruler, and the power struggles feel all too real. With a recent debut of the second season in the US, now is the perfect time to dive into this enthralling political drama.

12. Camelot (2011)

Where to Watch: Prime Video and Apple TV
Number of Seasons: 1
Cast: Eva Green, Jamie Campbell, Bower, Tamsin Egerton, Claire Forlani

The legend of King Arthur has been retold countless times, but Camelot (2011) offers a deeper, more immersive take on the story across 10 gripping episodes. When King Uther dies, Arthur—a young man unaware of his true lineage—learns he is the rightful heir to the throne. This revelation thrusts him into a world of power struggles, betrayals, and impossible choices as he fights to claim his destiny.

Arthur’s greatest rival is his half-sister Morgan, a cunning and ruthless force who believes she is the true ruler. Played masterfully by Eva Green, she brings a chilling intensity to the role, making her one of the most compelling antagonists in Arthurian adaptations.

Unlike many King Arthur adaptations, Camelot takes its time to flesh out its characters, giving viewers a richer and more nuanced look at the legendary kingdom. If you love historical dramas filled with intrigue, ambition, and grand battles, this series is a must-watch.

11. Rome (2005) & Rome 2 (2007)

Where to Watch: Max and Hulu
Number of Seasons: 2
Cast: Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker, Ciarán Hinds

We all know how Rome fell, but Rome (2005) takes us back to witness its rise to power. This historical epic delves into the wars, betrayals, and political schemes that shaped the world’s greatest empire. From brutal battles to the manipulations of the elite, the show offers a gripping look at how ambition and power struggles fueled Rome’s ascent.

While The Tudors focused more on courtly intrigue, Rome embraces bloodshed, war, and political treachery at every turn. The HBO budget allowed for grand, cinematic battle sequences and lavish set designs that make the ancient world feel alive. The powerful never fight their own battles—they manipulate others into doing their dirty work, and Rome brilliantly showcases the ruthless politics behind every war.

If The Tudors left you craving more action, Rome delivers in spades. With intense betrayals, larger-than-life characters, and gripping storytelling, this series is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas that don’t hold back.

10. Medici: Masters of Florence (2016-2019)

Where to Watch: Prime Video and Netflix
Number of Seasons: 3
Cast: Richard Madden, Stuart Martin, Annabel Scholey, Guido Caprino

Everyone knows Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello—the legendary artists of the Italian Renaissance. But few talk about Cosimo de’ Medici, a man with the soul of an artist who was forced to trade his creative dreams for the cutthroat world of banking. In medieval Italy, the Medici family held immense power, but with great influence came even greater burdens.

Can a visionary truly thrive in a world of politics, power struggles, and betrayal? Medici: Masters of Florence explores this question as Cosimo navigates a life filled with forbidden romances, shifting allegiances, and deadly rivalries. The show brings the Italian Renaissance to life with breathtaking scenery and deeply authentic storytelling.

Despite its stellar cast and gripping narrative, Medici remains criminally underrated. If you’re looking for a historical drama that combines political intrigue with the rich artistry of the Renaissance, this is one you don’t want to miss.

9. Bridgerton (2020-2024)

Where to Watch: Netflix
Number of Seasons: 3
Cast: Adjoa Andoh, Lorraine Ashbourne, Jonathan Bailey, Ruby Barker

When Bridgerton debuted on Netflix in 2020, it instantly became a global sensation—and for good reason. With its grand estates, dazzling ballroom scenes, and breathtaking costumes, this period drama is nothing short of a visual masterpiece. Set in the early 1800s, the show brilliantly blends high society scandals with romance, all while mothers fiercely compete to secure the most prestigious matches for their children.

Each episode is a whirlwind of intrigue, passion, and unexpected twists, making it impossible to look away. But Bridgerton isn’t just about lavish gowns and flirtatious glances; it’s a story filled with relatable struggles, personal triumphs, and the ever-present hope for a happily ever after. The series even reinvents classical music, transforming modern hits into orchestral masterpieces that perfectly complement its extravagant world.

Whether you love heart-racing romances or simply want to bask in a world of elegance and scandal, Bridgerton (with season four coming) is an absolute must-watch.

8. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

Where to Watch: Max
Number of Seasons: 8
Cast: Kit Harington, Richard Madden, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams

No list of historical or fantasy dramas is complete without Game of Thrones. Even if you haven’t watched a single episode, you’ve definitely heard whispers of its epic battles, shocking betrayals, and characters who rarely live to see another season.

Set in the brutal and treacherous world of Westeros, the story follows noble houses vying for power, all while dark forces beyond the Wall threaten to bring about the end of humanity. Here, loyalty is a dangerous game, and trust is a fool’s gamble. Just when you think you know where the story is headed, it takes a sharp, merciless turn—leaving you in stunned silence (or screaming at your screen).

What makes Game of Thrones truly legendary is its masterful storytelling. George R.R. Martin crafted a universe so vast and intricate that it spans continents, generations, and an ever-growing body count. Every character, from ruthless queens to cunning bastards, carries an air of unpredictability, making the show impossible to predict. And let’s not forget the chillingly perfect soundtrack, which amplifies every betrayal, battle, and heartbreaking farewell.

Yes, the final season left fans divided, but the journey? Absolutely unforgettable. If you’ve somehow missed Game of Thrones, consider this your sign to dive into one of the greatest fantasy sagas of all time. Just don’t get too attached to anyone—you never know when their last scene might be.

7. The Crown (2016-2023)

Where to Watch: Netflix
Number of Seasons: 6
Cast: Claire Foy, Matt Smith, Vanessa Kirby, Eileen Atkins

From the Queen’s wedding in 1947 to the heartbreak of Princess Margaret’s failed engagement in 1955, The Crown has meticulously chronicled the British monarchy’s most defining moments. Spanning six seasons, the series has captivated audiences with its rich storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and outstanding performances.

Each season unravels new layers of royal history, showcasing both the grandeur and the personal struggles behind the palace walls. The show’s unique approach of recasting the Queen with different actresses as time progresses is remarkably seamless, making the transition between generations feel effortless.

While the pacing can be slow at times, The Crown remains one of Netflix’s finest dramas, offering a fascinating blend of history, drama, and spectacle. If you haven’t watched it yet, now is the perfect time to step into the world of royalty.

6. Victoria (2016-2019)

Where to Watch: PBS & Prime Video
Number of Seasons: 3
Cast: Jenna Coleman, Tom Hughes, Peter Bowles

Bringing history to life with remarkable realism, Victoria is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the British monarchy. The series follows Queen Victoria’s rise to power, showcasing her intelligence, determination, and refusal to be controlled—making it clear that women are not mere ornaments to be guarded.

Jenna Coleman delivers a stellar performance as the young queen, embodying both her strength and vulnerability. The show’s historical accuracy, stunning set design, and meticulous storytelling by Daisy Goodwin make every episode compelling.

While Victoria shares similarities with The Crown, it takes a more subtle approach, focusing on the personal and political struggles of the era. If you love history, this series is a must-watch—it has all the elements to keep you hooked.

5. Gunpowder (2017)

Where to Watch: Prime Video and Hulu
Number of Seasons: 1
Cast: Kit Harington, Peter Mullan, Mark Gatiss 

HBO’s Gunpowder isn’t just another period drama—it’s a gripping, blood-soaked retelling of one of the most infamous events in British history: the Gunpowder Plot. And with Game of Thrones star Kit Harington at the helm, playing his own ancestor Robert Catesby, the stakes feel even higher.

The three-part miniseries plunges viewers into the brutal reality of early 17th-century England, where a group of persecuted Catholics conspires to overthrow King James I. The show doesn’t shy away from the gory details, delivering shocking executions and high-stakes espionage in every episode.

From secret meetings to the fateful night that would inspire Britain’s Bonfire Night celebrations, Gunpowder is a short but powerful watch. If you’re a fan of historical thrillers filled with intrigue, betrayal, and rebellion, this is one you don’t want to miss.

4. Poldark (2015-2019)

Where to Watch: PBS and Apple TV
Number of Seasons: 5
Cast: Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Heida Reed, Ruby Bentall

Few period dramas capture the raw intensity of love, war, and personal struggle quite like Poldark. With breathtaking scenery, compelling storytelling, and a cast that brings every emotion to life, it’s no surprise that this series remains a fan favorite.

At its heart is Ross Poldark—flawed, fiery, and utterly human. His return from war isn’t just a homecoming; it’s the beginning of a tumultuous journey filled with heartbreak, rivalry, and redemption. The villains are despicable, the romance is electrifying, and the stakes are always high.

Debbie Horsfield’s adaptation masterfully weaves historical drama with deep character development, making Poldark one of the rare shows you can watch again and again without losing its magic. If you haven’t experienced it yet, consider this your sign to start.

3. The Hollow Crown (2012-2016)

Where to Watch: Prime Video and Apple TV
Number of Seasons: 2
Cast: Ben Whishaw, Jeremy Irons, Tom Hiddleston, Benedict Cumberbatch

Shakespeare’s words have echoed through the centuries, but The Hollow Crown breathes new life into them with an intensity rarely captured on screen. Adapted from the Henriad Tetralogy, this 2012 masterpiece strips away the stiffness often associated with Shakespearean performances and delivers something raw, gripping, and undeniably cinematic.

The secret? A cast that doesn’t just recite lines—they inhabit them. Gone are the rigid, sing-song deliveries that haunt high school English classes. Instead, you get performances that feel visceral, urgent, and deeply human. Every betrayal stings, every ambition burns, and every fall from grace feels like a tragedy unfolding in real-time.

If you think Shakespeare isn’t for you, The Hollow Crown might just change your mind. With stellar acting, masterful direction, and an unwavering commitment to bringing these timeless stories to life, it’s a must-watch for both literature lovers and period drama enthusiasts alike.

2. Vikings (2013-2020)

Where to Watch: Netflix & History Channel
Number of Seasons: 6
Cast: Travis Fimmel, Katheryn Winnick, Clive Standen, Jessalyn Gilsig

Few shows command your attention like Vikings. From its very first episode, it plunges you into a brutal, breathtaking world where ambition, loyalty, and destiny collide. Unlike your typical historical dramas, Vikings doesn’t just tell a story—it pulls you into the mud, the blood, and the glory of the Viking Age, making you feel every battle, betrayal, and victory.

What sets it apart? The characters. Ragnar Lothbrok isn’t just a warrior; he’s a visionary, a legend in the making. Lagertha isn’t just a shieldmaiden; she’s a force of nature, unbreakable and fearless. Rollo, Athelstan, and the entire cast bring depth and intensity to every scene, ensuring no moment feels wasted.

Then there’s the craftsmanship—stunning cinematography, hauntingly beautiful music, and an attention to historical detail that makes everything feel eerily real. The battle choreography is chef’s kiss—visceral, raw, and meticulously executed, making every fight feel like life or death.

This isn’t just another period drama. Vikings is a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat masterpiece that immerses you in the untamed spirit of its era. If you haven’t watched it yet, what are you waiting for?

1. The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)

Where to Watch: Netflix
Number of Seasons: 5
Cast: Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Timothy Innes, Millie Brady

At the very top of this list stands The Last Kingdom, a show that delivers everything you could want from a historical epic—gritty battles, unforgettable characters, and a story that refuses to play it safe.

While Vikings leans into legend, The Last Kingdom thrives on realism. Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon raised by Danes, is torn between two worlds as England fights for survival. With shifting loyalties, heart-wrenching sacrifices, and breathtaking fight sequences, the show never lets up.

The writing is razor-sharp, the action is some of the best in the genre, and the soundtrack alone will send chills down your spine. If you haven’t seen The Last Kingdom yet, consider this your call to battle—because you’re missing out on one of the greatest historical dramas ever made.