Best Turkish Series on Netflix: An Expat’s Favorites for Culture and Entertainment

Not everyone has the same taste in film and TV, but if you’re looking for some of the best Turkish series on Netflix, I’d love to share my favorites.

When I first visited Turkey six years ago, one of the first things I did was pick a Turkish show on Netflix. It was Hakan: Muhafiz (known as The Protector in English), and I absolutely loved it!

For the last 5+ years in Turkey, I have been growing the list of shows I love and maybe not so much love.

Of course, we all have different preferences, so I’m sure not everything on this list will resonate with you. I’ve even included a few shows that aren’t personal favorites but are widely loved by others.

I’m curious to hear your thoughts as you watch them.

For me, watching Turkish series wasn’t just about entertainment. I wanted to immerse myself in the culture and later used these shows to help me learn Turkish. Learning a new language is hard work, but it’s much easier when the process is enjoyable!

Whether you’re learning Turkish before a trip, or you just want to explore new international shows, this list is a great place to start.

Let’s dive into a few of my top picks, and I’ll also share tips for using them to help you with language learning.

Best Turkish Series Netflix has to offer

Turks truly love dramas more than any other genre—perhaps only rivaled by horror. They gravitate toward movies and series that make them cry their eyes out, often without the redemptive endings I’ve come to expect.

Pro tip: These dramas typically end with a not-so-happy resolution, so have some tissues ready!

I remember watching Paper Lives. It was a brilliant movie—until the end. The ending absolutely gutted me, as is typical of Turkish drama.

This is how many Turkish shows unfold. Even when you’re learning Turkish, they’ll hit you with the most gut-wrenching stories and leave you hanging on terrible cliffhangers. It’s the Turkish way.

There are many great local TV shows and movies out there. This list of the best Turkish shows on Netflix will help you get started.

As you dive into these top Turkish dramas, take note—especially if you plan to visit or move here. You’ll gain insight into the culture!

Unfortunately, if you’re looking for a romantic Turkish series with English subtitles on Netflix, you won’t find any. There are some great movies (which I’ve listed at the end of the article), but none of them have subtitles in English.

Pro Tip: If you’re having trouble finding any of these shows, try using a VPN. First, quit your browser, then turn on Surf Shark VPN and select a different country. Afterward, log back into Netflix.

All the shows listed are available on the official Netflix site as of October 2024.

1. The Protector – “Hakan: Muhafiz” (2018-2020)

“The Protector” follows Hakan Demir, a modern-day Istanbul shopkeeper who discovers he’s the last in a line of ancient protectors. Armed with a mystical talisman and newfound powers, he must defend the city from supernatural threats while uncovering his family’s secrets.

Director: Umut Aral, Gönenç Uyanık, Can Evrenol, Burcu Alptekin
Cast: Çağatay Ulusoy (Hakan), Hazar Ergüçlü (Zeynep), Okan Yalabık (Faysal)
Genre: Action & Adventure, Fantasy
IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
Number of seasons: 4

This Turkish TV series on Netflix was the first one I watched, so it holds a special place in my heart.

What I loved about it was that it’s set mostly in modern times, making the language relevant and reflective of how people currently speak.

The storyline was captivating, and, unlike many shows, it maintained its quality beyond season 2, when some series start to lose their charm.

There are also flashbacks to different eras, including the Ottoman Empire, Constantinople, and even the dawn of time, which adds a fun historical layer.

If you enjoy magic, action, and a hint of romance, this series is perfect for you!

Fun fact: it’s based on a novel by N. Ipek Gökdel called Karakalem ve Bir Delikanlının Tuhaf Hikayesi (A Strange Story of Charcoal and a Young Man).

For action lovers, watching Hakan battle to save Istanbul from an immortal enemy—one his family has fought for centuries—will be a thrilling ride.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

2. The gift – “Atİye ” (2019-2021)

When an Istanbul-based artist, Atiye, discovers a mysterious symbol in her ancestral art, she embarks on a quest to unravel her family’s hidden past and the enigmatic connection she shares with an ancient archaeological site in this gripping supernatural drama.

Director: Ozan Açıktan, Gönenç Uyanık, Ali Taner, Burcu Alptekin
Cast: Beren Saat (Atiye), Mehmet Günsür (Erhan), Metin Akdülger (Ozan)
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Mystery
IMDb Rating: 7/10
Number of seasons: 3

In 2022, my mom came to visit me in Istanbul and stayed with me for a month. One of our favorite activities was watching a show together in the evenings. Atiye (also known as The Gift) became our go-to series during her trip.

We chose this one because it’s set in Turkey, with scenes in both Göbeklitepe and Istanbul. It allowed me to listen in Turkish while my mom enjoyed the subtitles. A fun moment was when my mom got excited realizing she had visited one of the locations in the show.

In this Turkish drama, you’ll explore historical sites and get a taste of Turkish culture through the characters’ interactions. You’ll also get a glimpse of life in Istanbul, from navigating the city’s streets to experiencing its bustling traffic.

Beyond the cultural elements, the series takes you on an adventure of fantastical proportions, with a compelling mix of mystery and the supernatural.

Atiye is based on the novel Dünyanın Uyanışı (The World’s Awakening) by Şengül Boybaş, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the story.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

3. Kübra (2024-)

When a man living a quiet suburban life starts receiving mysterious messages that appear to predict the future, he finds himself gaining a devoted following. However, as his influence grows, so do the threats from powerful enemies who seek to unravel the mysteries surrounding him.

Director: Yağmur Taylan, Durul Taylan
Cast: Çağatay Ulusoy (Gökhan), Aslıhan Malbora (Merve), Ahsen Eroğlu (Gülcan)
Genre: Drama, Thriller
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
Number of seasons: 1

Kubra was quite an interesting show. I didn’t know what I was getting into when I started it, and I won’t spoil it for you—but there’s a twist coming that you definitely won’t expect! #everyturkishshowever

In this new Turkish series on Netflix, Gökhan (played by Çağatay Ulusoy) portrays a working man who unexpectedly becomes a prophet.

After living in Turkey for more than five years, I can vouch for the accurate portrayal of everyday life in the show. The streets, the close-knit neighbors, and the family interactions all ring true to the culture.

The story takes a unique turn when Gökhan begins receiving text messages from “God,” instructing him on what to do and declaring him a special prophet. At a particularly low point in his life, this revelation brings him a sense of purpose and excitement.

I won’t give away any more details to avoid ruining the surprises, but this show is quite different from others I’ve seen. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

WATCH ON Netflix

4. Innocent – “Masum” (2017)

“Masum” (Innocent) is a suspenseful and emotionally charged Turkish drama on Netflix that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. This series revolves around Cevdet. As Cevdet strives to clear his name and rebuild his life, he becomes entangled in a web of betrayal, revenge, and long-buried family mysteries

Director: Seren Yüce
Cast: Haluk Bilginer (Cevdet), Nur Sürer (Nermin), Ali Atay (Yusuf)
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Crime
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Number of seasons: 1

Innocent is the only series on this list I haven’t watched yet, but I’ve heard great things about it and look forward to diving in!

This miniseries is an adaptation of a play by Berkun Oya. You’ll notice themes of the honor/shame culture as well as the deep family ties that are so prominent in Turkey and this part of the world.

The story is sure to pull on your emotions and stir up feelings you may have forgotten.

The plot revolves around retired Superintendent Cevdet, who lives with his wife Nermin and son Tarık in a peaceful coastal town. But their quiet life is shattered when tragedy strikes, and Tarık’s wife, Emel, and brother, Taner, die in a mysterious accident.

Yusuf, a former student of Cevdet and now a Commissioner, is sent by Chief Inspector Selahattin to investigate the suspicious death of his close friend, Taner.

As Yusuf digs deeper, long-buried secrets that Cevdet and Nermin have kept hidden are at risk of being uncovered, leading to a suspenseful and emotional story.

WATCH ON Netflix

5. Ethos – “Bir Başkadır” (2020)

“Bir Baskadir” delves into the complex tapestry of Turkish society through the eyes of a psychologist named Peri, who encounters a diverse range of patients. This thought-provoking series explores societal norms, identities, and the human condition.

Director: Berkun Oya
Cast: Öykü Karayel (Meryem), Fatih Artman (Yasin), Defne Kayalar (Peri)
Genre: Drama, Thriller
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Number of seasons: 1

Ethos is one of those dramas where different characters’ stories are intricately intertwined, and everything comes together in the end.

Pro tip: This show is better suited for more advanced Turkish learners.

Meryem, the main character, speaks with a distinct accent, which can be difficult to understand if you’re not familiar with the language. Additionally, there’s a lot of cultural context to grasp, as Meryem lives with her brother and his family, and their complex dynamics add layers to the story.

Tensions rise as family secrets are exposed and personal issues are addressed in therapy sessions, leading to emotional and thought-provoking moments.

I enjoyed this series so much that I’ve watched it twice. Hopefully, the next time around, I can manage it with only Turkish audio and subtitles!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

6. Fatma (2021)

“Fatma” follows the story of a cleaning lady who turns to crime after her husband goes missing. Her journey into the criminal underworld leads to unexpected consequences as she searches for answers and justice.

Director: Özer Feyzioğlu, Özgür Önürme
Cast: Burcu Biricik (Fatma), Uğur Yücel (Yazar), Mehmet Yılmaz Ak (Bayram)
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Number of seasons: 1

In this gritty and unconventional crime drama, Fatma offers a fresh twist on the genre with its unlikely protagonist—a cleaning lady turned vigilante.

The story follows Fatma as she searches for her husband after his release from prison, only to find herself committing murder along the way.

When her husband’s shady associates discover her secret, they exploit her, forcing her to continue killing to survive in this dangerous new world.

While I watched a few episodes, this show wasn’t quite my style, so I didn’t finish it but decided to include it because it is very Turkish. That said, not every show is for everyone—give it a try! If it’s not your thing, just move on to the next one.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

7. Midnight at the Pera Palace – “Pera Palas’ta Gece Yarısı” (2022-)

A historical drama set in the iconic Pera Palace Hotel during the early 20th century, this series weaves a captivating narrative around the hotel’s guests, including famous figures like Agatha Christie and Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, against the backdrop of a changing world.

Director: Emre Şahin, Nisa Dağ
Cast: Hazal Kaya (Esra), Tansu Biçer (Ahmet), Selahattin Pasali (Halit)
Genre: Drama, History, Mystery
IMDb Rating: 7/10
Number of seasons: 2

Pera Palace was a really fun show, full of twists and turns that I thoroughly enjoyed. The series is actually based on a novel by Charles King, though I didn’t know that when I first watched it.

The main character, Esra, is a journalist on the hunt for her next big story when she visits the Pera Palace.

She’s completely shocked when she’s transported back to 1919 and even more stunned to discover that her actions in the past can alter the present.

During her time-traveling adventure, she encounters famous historical figures like Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Agatha Christie, and others, adding an exciting layer to the plot.

This show was a refreshing break from the heavier dramas typical of local Turkish series. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

The second season was just released in September and I am loving every minute of it.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

8. Another Self – “Zeytİn ağacı” (2022)

This show follows Ada, Sevgi and Leyla’s adventure, which start with raki and fish in Ayvalık. They make a pact to stop holding back and to start doing the things that make them come alive. It allows them to make new decisions for their own lives while reconciling them with their past.

Director: Burcu Alptekin
Cast: Tuba Büyükütün (Ada), Seda Bakan (Leyla), Boncuk Yılmaz (Sevgi)
Genre: Drama, Romance
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
Number of seasons: 2

Oh man, I love this series! It’s probably my favorite Turkish Netflix show, and the new season was recently released. I devoured the first one as well as the second.

When I lived in America, I started learning about how our emotions can manifest physically. I’ve experienced firsthand how forgiveness or clearing up negative beliefs about myself led to big shifts in my health.

This show follows three friends, one of whom has cancer. They end up seeing a spiritual healer, and through some intense encounters, all three face their past demons and begin moving forward.

Turkish shows don’t always have the same redemptive endings we often see in American series, which I’ve found challenging at times. But this show has so much light and redemption in the story—and I’m all in.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

9. Yakamoz S-245 (2022)

A gripping submarine thriller, “Yakamoz S-245” delves into the lives of the submarine crew members as they navigate the challenges of the deep sea, international tensions, and personal conflicts.

Director: Tolga Karaçelik, Umut Aral
Cast: Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ (Arman), Özge Özpirinçci (Defne), Ertan Saban (Umut)
Genre: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
Number of seasons: 1

I really enjoyed this series, especially since I am a fan of action movies and shows—it didn’t disappoint! It was so good that I was sad there’s only one season so far. Hopefully, more will come.

Yakamoz follows Arman, a free-spirited dive instructor and marine biologist, who is recruited for a research mission aboard a submarine. Shortly after they depart, chaos erupts as a deadly solar phenomenon threatens all life on the surface.

Forced to seek refuge on a military submarine, Arman and his team face two challenges: uncovering what’s happening above and navigating the true intentions of their naval counterparts. Tensions especially rise between Arman and the stern second-in-command, Umut.

In the midst of the crisis, Arman battles for survival while also rekindling an old love. Along the way, he discovers that he’s more than he thought—a hero, a leader, and a legend.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

10. 50M2 (2021)

This action-packed series follows a hitman named Golge, who goes into hiding and assumes a new identity when he unexpectedly inherits a small tailor shop. His quest for redemption and a fresh start leads to unexpected alliances and revelations.

Director: Selçuk Aydemir
Cast: Engin Öztürk (Gölge), Kürşat Alnıaçık (Servet), Cengiz Bozkurt (Muhtar)
Genre: Drama, Thriller
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Number of seasons: 1

50M2 was a pleasant surprise. I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did.

The story follows Golge, a former hitman betrayed by his boss. While on the run, he stumbles upon a vacant tailor shop and decides to hide there. The twist? He’s quickly mistaken for the shop’s late owner’s son.

Embracing this new identity not only changes Golge’s life but also affects the people around him in unexpected ways.

This show was a refreshing break from heavier drama, with plenty of action that kept me hooked from start to finish. I couldn’t stop watching!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

11. The Club – “Kulüp” (2021-)

“The Club” portrays the inner workings of an exclusive Istanbul nightclub, exploring the lives, ambitions, and complex relationships of its employees and patrons in a world of glamour and intrigue.

Director: Seren Yüce, Zeynep Günay Tan
Cast: Gökçe Bahadır (Matilda), Barış Arduç (İsmet), Salih Bademci (Selim)
Genre: Drama
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Number of seasons: 2

I really enjoyed The Club and look forward to watching it again!

Set in the 1950s, this historical drama centers around Matilda, an ex-convict working hard to rebuild her relationship with her daughter, Rasel.

Through her influence, a once-oppressive and difficult environment transforms into a home for the club’s employees.

However, Matilda’s past threatens to unravel the new life she’s trying to create for herself.

The series delves deep into cultural context, showcasing how the club pushed social boundaries for its time. If you enjoy historical fiction with strong character development, I recommend giving this one a try!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

12. Wolf – “Börü” (2018)

“Wolf” follows the journey of a young man named Ali, who joins a secret government organization tasked with eliminating a terrorist group. This espionage thriller explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the thin line between good and evil.

Director: Alper Çağlar
Cast: Ahu Türkpençe (Asena), Serkan Çayoğlu (Kaya), Murat Arkın (Kemal)
Genre: Action, Drama, War
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Number of seasons: 1

The Wolf follows a special operations police team tasked with a high-stakes mission to eliminate a terrorist group.

Along the way, they face intense challenges both on and off the job, as the pressures in their personal lives threaten to impact their work and potentially cost them everything.

The story continues with Börü 2039, expanding on the intense themes from the miniseries.

This one is still on my watchlist, but with its reputation as one of the top 10 Turkish shows on Netflix, it feels like a must-watch!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

13. Love 101 – “Aşk 101” (2021)

Set in the ’90s, “Love 101” tells the story of a group of misfit high school students who hatch a plan to unite their favorite teacher with the school’s basketball coach. Their adventure turns into a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and friendship.

Director: Ahmet Katıksız, Deniz Yorulmazer, Gönenç Uyanık, Umut Aral
Cast: Pınar Deniz (Burcu), Kubilay Aka (Kerem), Mert Yazıcıoğlu (Sinan)
Genre: Drama, Romance
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Number of seasons: 2

If you love high school dramas filled with rebellious antics and a bit of nostalgia for the “cool” crowd—or maybe getting into trouble—then Love 101 is one of the top dramas on Netflix for you.

This coming-of-age series follows five teenagers who are constantly in trouble at school. When they learn that their only ally, a kind teacher named Burcu, is leaving, they come up with a plan to save themselves.

Their idea? Get Burcu to fall in love with the sports coach so she’ll stay.

Though I watched several episodes, Turkish drama—and drama in general—just isn’t my cup of tea.

But my language teacher highly recommended it for anyone interested in learning Turkish and exploring Turkish culture, so I’m passing it along to you!

WATCH ON NETFLIX

14. The Tailor – “Terzİ” (2023-2024)

“The Tailor” follows the life of Peyami, a renowned tailor who recently achieved success with a runway show, overshadowed by his eccentric best friend Dimitri. However, their jubilation is disrupted by Peyami’s grandfather’s passing, threatening to expose a dark secret he’s been avoiding.

Director: Cem Karcı
Cast: Çağatay Ulusoy (Peyami), Salih Bademci (Dimitri), Şifanur Gül (Esvet)
Genre: Drama, Romance
IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
Number of seasons: 3

I had a hard time getting into The Tailor at first. Dimitri’s character was a bit much for me. When I first saw the trailer, I expected the show to go in a different direction, but on the recommendation of my language teacher, I gave it a shot anyway.

I ended up really enjoying the first season. The character development is excellent, and as you learn more about each character, you start to understand why they are the way they are.

However, I skipped a lot of the second season, especially in the first few episodes, because there were too many sex scenes for my taste.

But I was hooked on finding out the real story, and the constant revelations of lies and secrets kept me on my toes. By the end of season two, I was surprised to see some redemptive elements, which is rare in Turkish dramas.

By the end of season three, I was ready for a fourth only to find out they won’t be continuing the series. Sad day. I need to know what happens!

This show isn’t for everyone, but it’s a good one if you’re interested in learning more about Turkish culture and picking up some common phrases along the way.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

15. Shamaran (2023-)

In “Shamaran” Şahsu travels to Adana with the intention of confronting her long-lost grandfather, who abandoned her mother years ago. During her journey, she becomes entangled in the enigmatic and unusual community of Mar, who are descendants of Shahmaran, leading to unexpected and mysterious encounters.

Director: Umur Turagay
Cast: Serenay Sarıkaya (Sahsu), Burak Deniz (Maran), Mustafa Uğurlu (Davut)
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Thriller
IMDb Rating: 5.2/10
Number of seasons: 1

Last but not least, Shahmaran. While I haven’t finished this one yet, I have to say I’m intrigued.

It starts off slower than most Turkish dramas you’ll find on Netflix, but that’s not a bad thing. The pacing allows for deeper character development and story buildup.

The story follows Sahsu, who travels to Adana to speak at a conference but also takes the opportunity to confront her estranged grandfather. She has so many unanswered questions, with only the vague answers she received as a child.

Upon arriving, she stumbles upon a mysterious community that believes in the legend of Shahmaran.

Like Atiye, this series weaves in mystical elements, which I’m drawn to. I’ve only seen the first episode so far, but I have a feeling I’ll enjoy it in the end.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

Other Turkish shows on Netflix

The list would be so long if I listed them all so I will add add a few others that are popular among Turks. I haven’t watched any of these yet.

• As the Crow Flies – I have tried to get into this because there are 3 seasons so far and it is on every single list but it’s too much drama for me…maybe you’ll enjoy it.
• Rise of Empires: Ottoman – a historical fiction based on the life of Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II who tried to take over Constantinople.
• The Life and Movies of Ersan Kuneri – Written, directed, and starred in by my favorite Turkish comedian, Cem Yılmaz. It is a bit raunchy for my taste but Cem Yılmaz is quite funny
• Beni Böyle Sev – “Love Me Like This” is one of my favorites but isn’t currently on Netflix. You can find it on YouTube. I especially love the first season as the subsequent seasons were simply too dramatic for me.

Turkish movies on Netflix

There are some great movies out there but I love a good Turkish romantic comedy movie. Since there aren’t any Turkish romantic series on Netflix I’ll share a few of my favorite movies.

• In Good Hands – This isn’t a comedy but it is a really heart-warming film…except the ending isn’t a typical happy ending. WORTH WATCHING!
• Love Tactics – This is hysterical. Think “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”. There is even a second one now. They have also released a second one.
• Make Me Believe – This is a Turkish version of a typical enemies turned lovers storyline I found it quite enjoyable.
• Kill Me if You Dare – a couple on the outs win the lottery and have to figure out how to split it. Oh, the drama in Turkish shows! This one you will only be able to find with your VPN on for Turkey.

5 Tips for Watching Turkish Shows for Language Learning

There are a few things I would highly recommend so that you can get the most out of your learning journey.

1. FOCUS – Don’t do anything else while you’re watching, except take note of words/phrases you don’t know or have wanted to know how to say.
   
2. 3x your show – Watch the same movie or episode three times. The first time, watch it in Turkish with English subtitles.
   
   The second time watch it in Turkish with Turkish subtitles. The third time watch it in Turkish with no subtitles. Each time, make sure you make notes as necessary and pause when needed.
   
3. Repetition is key – Use the words you wrote down in sentences. Practice using them so they will stick better.
   
   You can memorize them but they stick so much better when you can use them in a sentence that makes sense because you have just given the word context.
   
4. Local production – If you watch something other than the ones below I would encourage you to start with ones that are created locally. You’ll get so much more out of it!
   
   If you don’t, oftentimes what is dubbed in English voice is different than what is in subtitles. This makes it much harder to line up the sounds and words you’re reading.
   
5. Pay attention – Watch the cultural implications of what is happening. Some of my favorite shows below are because I learned so much about the culture more than I paid attention to the language. Turkish shows are rich in help for language learners.

If you don’t see them on your particular Netflix, you can always use a VPN to see the Turkish ones. If you need one, this is my favorite!

Final thoughts about the top Turkish Series

There are soooooo many more that I could add to the list. I do, however, wish there were more Turkish romantic series on Netflix but maybe they will come in time.

I encourage you to find some of your favorites and share them with me. I am always on the hunt for new shows on Netflix!

If you’re simply watching for entertainment, enjoy! If you’re hoping to learn a bit of Turkish along the way, paying attention definitely helps.

If you watch these and are looking for more reasons to visit Turkey, check out this post on reasons to visit.