Game of Thrones was one of the most exciting shows for both fantasy lovers and viewers captivated by the medieval-esque setting. Fans don't need to be discouraged that the fantasy epic is finished, however, because many other well-regarded TV shows are set in the medieval period, whether historically accurate or full of fantasy and magic.
For fans looking for a viewing experience to fill the gap GOT left behind and sate their love of magic, knights, royals, and everything medieval, they can find numerous shows available on any of the major streaming services - Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max, and more.
The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)
Available To Stream On Netflix.
The Last Kingdom has all the medieval elements viewers could want, from swords and armor to castles. While The Last Kingdom's fight scenes are a mixed bag in terms of quality, it is a historical fiction series, meaning fans can learn a little about the Saxons and Danes while watching.
The story follows the main character Uhtred as his kingdom is defeated and captured by the Danes. He is taken from his family and raised as their own, creating bonds with the Dane leader, who he saw as his new father. Once he is older, he is forced to pick between his birth nation or the one he was raised in, and his loyalties will be tested. Portraying gruesome battles and flourishing romances, this is everything medieval fans could want.
Vikings (2013-)
Available To Stream On Prime Video, Hulu, And Peacock.
With similar themes to The Last Kingdom, Vikings proves to be one of the most accurate displays of the Norse peoples' traditions and way of life. As the title suggests, the show follows a band of Vikings under notorious and powerful leader Ragnar Lothbrok.
Ragnar is a hero among the Norse people, a descendant of Odin himself, and the show captures what he does best - exploring the seas and raiding lands and villages. Vikings does not hold anything back, revealing the gritty lifestyles and gruesome battles. However, amidst all of the violence, Vikings has some heartwarming scenes of romance and kinship that fans can also appreciate.
Medici (2016-2019)
Available To Stream On Netflix.
Medici is another historical medieval drama filled with the strive for power. Set in Italy in the 15th century, this show reveals the ins and outs of the wealthy and well-known Medici family and their conniving plots.
The Medici family are of a banking dynasty, known for their power and great wealth. When his father suddenly passes, Cosimo holds onto the secret that he was murdered. He recruits his brother to help track down the murderer and restore security for the family. The show is an entertaining tale of medieval Italy, filled with deception and cunning and some steamy affairs and romances.
Merlin (2008-2012)
Available To Stream On Netflix, Prime Video, And Hulu.
Although Merlin is an older show, it still stands as one of the best fantasy shows set during the medieval era. It's the classic tale of Merlin and King Arthur but with a few twists that make for even more fascinating viewing.
Undoubtedly this show is one of the best portrayals of King Arthur and Merlin, as they both navigate their birthrights and do what's best for the kingdom. After a bumpy start, the two slowly form a friendship and work together to do away with evil beings that threaten the realm. With humor, adventure, action, and a whimsical view of magic, this show is an entertaining and binge-worthy show medieval fans will love.
Game Of Thrones (2011-2019)
Available To Stream On HBO Max.
Even with the last season's disappointment, Game of Thrones will probably still go down in history as one of the best shows ever created. It has all the great elements of the medieval era and some fantasy twists, such as dragons and Whitewalkers.
Based on the books by George R. R. Martin, Game of Thrones follows the people of Westeros and their Seven Kingdoms as they go to war to see who will be the Lord and Protector of The Realm and sit on the Iron Throne. While this battle of kings erupts, another threat rises beyond the kingdoms' great wall - fallen men, women, and children are resurrecting as undead Whitewalkers. With the return of the dragons, they might stand a chance, but will they join together as one?
The Wheel Of Time (2021-)
Available To Stream On Prime Video.
The Wheel of Time, another great fantasy drama based on novels by Robert Jordan, revolves around a world of magic, prophesy, and dragons. This story of adventure and destiny can be streamed on Prime Video.
The Wheel of Time depicts a medieval time of magic, where the main character, Moiraine, hears a prophesy stating that an individual could be reincarnated as the Dragon. She bands together with a group of young men and women to accompany her on a journey to test their will and power. She believes one of them could be the 'chosen one,' but will they prove to be the savior of the world or its undoing?
Cursed (2020)
Available To Stream On Netflix.
Cursed is another interpretation of the King Arthur tale everyone knows so well, except the story follows the mysterious "Lady of the Lake," Nimue. This twist on the classic tale is a refreshing change and entertaining adventure with medieval and modern themes alike.
Actress Katherine Langford, known for her role in 13 Reasons Why, plays the main character Nimue as she escapes from her village, destroyed by the Red Paladins, and seeks to find a way to avenge them. When she meets with a young mercenary, Arthur, she accompanies him to find a lost sword and return it to the powerful wizard, Merlin. Her mysterious gifts prove she is more than just a simple townsgirl, and she will find her destiny along the way.
The Witcher (2019-)
Available To Stream On Netflix.
The Witcher is a Netflix original video game adaptation. Though it can still be considered a medieval fantasy with swords, magic, and beautiful scenery, it's slightly different from the other shows because it includes folklore, introducing wild monsters and creatures straight out of a fairytale.
The Witcher is unique for a fantasy series because it has themes that are medieval and futuristic at the same time. Geralt, the main character, is a monster hunter who ventures around the world, ridding it of monsters from all different realms. When he comes across a young girl, Ciri, he realizes she is bound to him by destiny and takes her under his wing. He must protect her from other forces of the world that seek to use her, and her powerful abilities, for evil.
The Letter For The King (2020-)
Available To Stream On Netflix.
The Letter For The King is a heart-warming, adventurous tale set in the medieval era. Determined to complete his mission, a young knight sets out to deliver a letter to the hands of the king and the king alone.
Tiuri, a young aspiring knight, takes on the special task of delivering a secret letter to the king to prove his loyalty and bravery. However, it is a long journey, and many obstacles lay in his path. He bands together with six other young warriors who assist him on his dangerous journey. It's an entertaining tale of adventure, friendship, and a sense of duty.
Shadow And Bone (2021-)
Available To Stream On Netflix.
Shadow and Bone has all the ingredients of a great fantasy series, with magic, weapons, and battles, but with a more modern approach. Instead of a Western take on the medieval period, the series, and the novel it's based on, is inspired by Russia (per The Atlantic).
Shadow and Bone follows Alina, an orphaned cartographer, who discovers she is a Grisha born with special magical gifts. While she knows she is destined to save the different realms, she isn't sure who she can trust. She finds everyone around her expects different things from her. Some want her dead, some see her as a Saint, and others seek to kidnap her for her power. She must develop her gift and decide who she will side with within the treacherous world around her.