Everyone dreams of experiencing that thrilling, butterflies-in-your-stomach kind of love. It’s the kind of love that brightens every day, making the tough times feel a little easier to bear. The desire for companionship is universal, which is why we often find ourselves captivated by romantic television shows. Whether it’s the iconic adventures of Sex and the City or the charming escapades in Emily in Paris, we can’t help but swoon alongside characters like Carrie and Emily as they navigate their love lives.

Yet, the world of romance shows is vast and filled with hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. These captivating series bring joy and elation, making us kick our feet with delight. They also explore the intricate and sometimes messy aspects of love, drawing us in until we find ourselves deeply invested in the characters’ romantic journeys. The complexity of relationships portrayed in these shows resonates with our own experiences, making them all the more engaging and relatable.

10

Discover the Magic of ‘Dash & Lily’ (2020)

Created by Joe Tracz

Dash & Lily is the ultimate cozy series to enjoy during the festive season. If you find joy in classic romantic films like Love Actually or Holidate, this delightful series is sure to captivate your heart. With just eight short episodes featuring talented actors Austin Abrams and Midori Francis, this charming adaptation brings a delightful romantic story to life. The show, which is based on a beloved book series, boasts high-profile executive producers, including Nick Jonas and Deadpool & Wolverine’s Shawn Levy.

Sadly, the series was cut short after just one season. The storyline revolves around Dash, who despises the holiday season in New York, and Lily, who adores everything about Christmas in the city. Their playful exchange of dares leads to a cozy, heartwarming tale that is perfect for anyone longing for a taste of home or seeking to embrace the joyful spirit of the holidays.

9

Experience the Heartwarming ‘Home for Christmas’ (2019–)

Created by Per-Olav Sørensen

Home for Christmas is a delightful Norwegian romantic comedy that unfolds during the holiday season, offering more charm than you might expect. Notably, Home for Christmas is Netflix’s inaugural Norwegian series, marking a promising beginning for the platform’s international offerings. The story follows Johanne (Ida Elise Broch), the protagonist, who has just 24 days to secure a boyfriend to introduce to her family for Christmas dinner after fabricating a story that she is in a relationship. This premise sets the stage for a series of entertaining mishaps as she frantically searches for a suitable partner.

The series consists of two seasons, originally released in 2019 and 2020, and it has been recently announced that it will return in 2025 after a five-year hiatus. Given its unique approach to the genre, it’s no wonder that Netflix is eager to bring back this beloved series. It captures the cozy essence of a Christmas series while steering clear of the typical cheesiness found in many holiday films. It bravely incorporates mature themes, including romantic encounters and language, while presenting a genuine portrayal of the holiday season. It balances the reality of the season with the warmth and joy it can bring.

8

Explore the Intriguing Dynamics of ‘Younger’ (2015–2021)

Created by Darren Star

“I wish I had done it when I was younger.” This sentiment resonates with many of us, reflecting our desire to have taken different paths in life. The Darren Star series Younger takes this concept to a whole new level. Liza (Sutton Foster), a 40-year-old woman, finds herself divorced and with an empty nest. Having spent years as a stay-at-home mom, she faces a significant gap in her resume. However, when she is mistakenly perceived as a 26-year-old, she seizes the opportunity to reinvent herself by faking her age and landing a job at a prestigious publishing company. Younger is a bold and captivating exploration of identity and ambition, filled with humor and heart.

In addition to the incredible talent of Broadway star Foster, the show features Disney’s Hilary Duff as her eventual best friend, Kelsey Peters. In contrast to Star’s other series, Emily in Paris, which often struggles with inconsistent writing, Younger stands out with its strong narrative and compelling character arcs. One of the highlights is Liza’s romantic entanglement in a love triangle involving a younger man and an older man. As she navigates her career while maintaining her secret, the series offers a delightful mix of romantic escapades and comedic moments that keep viewers engaged and entertained.

7

Enjoy the Heartfelt Journey of ‘Trying’ (2020–2023)

Created by Andy Wolton

Apple TV+ has delivered numerous compelling series, and among them, Trying stands out for its heartfelt narrative and relatable humor. This charming comedy follows the real-life couple Nikki (Esther Smith) and Jason (Rafe Spall) as they navigate the emotional and often challenging journey of adoption. Viewers not only become invested in the romance between Jason and Nikki, but also in the vibrant family dynamics that surround them as they face the ups and downs of seeking to expand their family. As they eventually welcome children, Princess and Tyler, the series beautifully illustrates the love that grows within their new family structure.

What truly resonates throughout the series is the authentic relationship depicted between Jason and Nikki. Both characters are flawed and make mistakes, yet their commitment to each other remains strong. Their relationship feels genuine and relatable, steering clear of the melodramatic tropes often found in romantic comedies, which makes for a refreshing viewing experience.

6

Navigate the Dark Humor of ‘The End of the F***ing World’ (2017–2019)

Created by Jonathan Entwistle and Lucy Tcherniak

Imagine a series that masterfully blends crime, dark humor, and romance—all wrapped in a compelling coming-of-age narrative. That’s exactly what you get with The End of the F***ing World. This unique crime-comedy series manages to weave a captivating story, despite its outrageous premise. Following the journey of James (Alex Lawther), who identifies as a self-proclaimed psychopath, the plot thickens as he chooses his next target: his classmate, Alyssa (Jessica Barden).

Based on a graphic novel by Charles S. Forsman, this absurdist comedy keeps viewers on their toes with unexpected twists. The End of the F***ing World epitomizes an unconventional romance, capturing hearts with its quirky charm and originality. It stands out brilliantly in the realm of coming-of-age shows, offering a fresh perspective on love and youth.

5

Delve into the Enchanting World of ‘A Discovery of Witches’ (2018–2022)

Created by Kate Brooke

If you’re a fan of Twilight, True Blood, and The Vampire Diaries, but are looking for something with a more mature twist, then A Discovery of Witches is the perfect choice. This three-season series encompasses elements of witchcraft, vampires, demons, historical intrigue, time travel, and a heartfelt romance. It centers on Diana Bishop (Teresa Palmer), an American witch and scholar who, despite her magical heritage, seeks to avoid the supernatural world. However, when she stumbles upon a long-lost manuscript, she is reluctantly drawn back into a realm filled with hostile witches and a charming vampire scientist, Matthew Clairmont (Matthew Goode).

As their relationship blossoms, both characters delve deeper into their intertwined histories, uncovering family secrets and the challenges they must overcome. The genuine love story that unfolds between them enhances the overall narrative, adding depth to the fantastical elements. A Discovery of Witches expertly crafts a high-quality fantasy series, seamlessly blending romance with an engaging plot that never detracts from its core themes.

4

Laugh Along with the Romantic Comedy ‘Starstruck’ (2021–2023)

Created by Rose Matafeo

A romantic-comedy sitcom that is brilliantly self-aware, Starstruck combines sharp wit and self-deprecation to deliver a delightful viewing experience. Created, co-written, and starring Rose Matafeo, the series captures the hearts of viewers as it follows her character’s romantic escapades, filled with relatable challenges.

The love story unfolds with Matafeo’s character, Jessie, who unexpectedly finds herself in a romantic encounter with a film star, Tom (Nikesh Patel). The narrative is a masterclass in crafting a story that feels both realistic and refreshingly humorous. This series offers important life lessons about self-love while keeping you entertained. With laughter as its core, this romantic comedy keeps audiences chuckling through all the ups and downs of Jessie and Tom’s relationship.

3

Discover the Powerful Love Story in ‘Fellow Travelers’ (2023)

Created by Ron Nyswaner

Fellow Travelers is a gripping historical romance series set in one of the most challenging eras in American history, providing a captivating narrative across its eight episodes. The talented Jonathan Bailey, known for his role in Bridgerton, showcases a different, more nuanced side of his acting prowess. The series centers on two political staffers, Hawkins (Matt Bomer) and Tim (Bailey), who fall deeply in love during the Lavender Scare of the 1950s—a period marked by McCarthyism, during which many individuals lost their jobs due to suspicions about their sexual orientation.

This show not only sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history but also highlights the profound struggles of falling in love as a gay couple during the 1950s. The intimate performances of both actors keep viewers enthralled. The narrative spans from the ’50s to the ’80s, illustrating how both characters evolve alongside societal changes. Their exceptional performances have earned them well-deserved Emmy nominations, showcasing their talent and the importance of representation in media.

2

Unravel the Quirky Charm of ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ (2015–2019)

Created by Rachel Bloom and Aline Brosh McKenna

Ever scroll through social media and come across your high school sweetheart, prompting the thought, “What are they doing now?” While some people might simply say hello and move on, Rebecca (Rachel Bloom) takes it a step further and moves all the way to California for her ex. Leaving behind her successful lawyer career in New York City, she embarks on this impulsive journey while insisting it’s unrelated. This quirky romantic series is interspersed with musical numbers that bring Rebecca’s inner thoughts to life, as she humorously insists she is not the Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.

What starts as a light-hearted and amusing show evolves into a profound exploration of self-discovery over its four seasons. The clever satirical songs, combined with a protagonist who is relentlessly pursuing love and connection, result in a narrative that delivers powerful messages about self-love and mental health. Ultimately, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend transforms from a tale of a girl chasing after a guy into a heartfelt journey of a woman learning to embrace and love herself.

1

Experience the Touching Story of ‘One Day’ (2024)

Created by Nicole Taylor

Netflix has curated an impressive selection of romance series, but none shine quite like One Day. Following the lives of Emma (Ambika Mod) and Dex (Leo Woodall), this series brilliantly encapsulates the essence of the friends-to-lovers trope. It artfully explores how love can take many forms and how it evolves throughout different life stages. From Dex’s wild nights as a film star to Emma’s journey as a writer, viewers are invited to fall in love with the characters as they navigate life.

Over the course of its fourteen episodes, viewers witness the characters grow from university students into fully realized adults. The clever storytelling technique of showcasing their lives on the same date each year creates a unique bond between the characters and the audience. The love story is both beautiful and complex, leaving a lasting impression. When the finale arrives, you will undoubtedly feel that this series has made its mark, becoming a romance that lingers in your heart.

NEXT: The Best Romance TV Shows of All Time, Ranked