Learning a new language can be an exhilarating journey. But let’s face it, textbooks and flashcards can only take you so far. To truly grasp the nuances of a language, you need to immerse yourself in its natural usage. And what better way to do that than through German TV shows?

Imagine picking up the rhythm of conversation, understanding idiomatic expressions, and absorbing the cultural nuances effortlessly, all while being thoroughly entertained. That’s the power of learning German through TV shows. It’s not just a language lesson, but an immersion into the heart of German culture.

This curated list of 26 German TV shows not only promises to enhance your language skills but also guarantees hours of fun. Whether you’re a beginner struggling with der, die, das or an advanced learner striving for fluency, these shows cater to all levels.

Table of Contents

How to Use German TV for Every Proficiency Level

Learning German through television is not just about passively watching. It’s about active engagement and strategic viewing. Here are some effective techniques to make the most out of your TV learning experience, regardless of your proficiency level.

Beginner Level (A1 – A2)

• Utilize Subtitles: Start by watching with English subtitles to get a grasp of basic vocabulary and sentence structures. Gradually switch to German subtitles as your confidence grows.
• Repeat and Mimic: Repetition is key. Mimic the actors’ pronunciation and intonation to internalize the sounds of the language.
• Focus on Context: Pay attention to gestures, facial expressions, and body language. Context can often provide clues to the meaning of unfamiliar words.

Intermediate Level (B1 – B2)

• Mix It Up: Alternate between shows with and without subtitles. Challenge yourself to rely more on your listening skills.
• Take Notes: Jot down new words or phrases. Create flashcards for easy revision.
• Discuss with Others: Join language forums or clubs to discuss the shows. Explaining concepts to others can solidify your understanding.

Advanced Level (C1 – C2)

• Ditch the Crutches: Try watching without any subtitles. This will test your comprehension and force you to rely on your linguistic intuition.
• Study Scripts: If available, delve into scripts of your favorite shows. Analyze dialogue structures and idiomatic expressions.
• Watch News or Documentaries: Expand your vocabulary by watching more formal programs. News shows often use clear, standard language.

Remember, the key is consistency. Even if you can only spare 15 minutes a day, regular exposure to the language will yield significant progress.

7 Benefits of Learning with German TV Shows

Watching German TV shows isn’t just a leisure activity; it’s a powerful tool for achieving fluency. Here are compelling reasons why incorporating TV shows into your language learning regimen is essential:

1. Authentic Conversations: Unlike textbooks, TV shows present real-life conversations with all their quirks, slang, and colloquialisms. This exposure is invaluable for understanding how native speakers communicate.
2. Immersion in Culture: Language is intertwined with culture. Through TV shows, you not only learn the language but also gain insight into German customs, traditions, and ways of thinking.
3. Improved Listening Skills: TV shows expose you to various accents, speeds of speech, and tones. This diverse auditory experience hones your listening skills, making comprehending different German pronunciation in real-world situations easier.
4. Enhanced Vocabulary and Idiomatic Usage: TV shows introduce you to a wide range of German vocabulary and idiomatic expressions in context. You’ll learn how words are used in specific situations, which is often hard to grasp from vocabulary lists alone.
5. Reinforcement of Grammar and Syntax: By observing how sentences are structured in natural speech, you internalize German grammar rules effortlessly. This practical application helps solidify your understanding of sentence formation.
6. Contextual Learning: The visual element in TV shows provides context for the language being used. This helps you infer meanings even if you encounter unfamiliar words, a skill crucial in real-life language situations.
7. Emotional Connection: Engaging storylines and relatable characters create an emotional connection, making it easier to remember new words and phrases. This emotional link aids in long-term retention.

Incorporating German TV shows into your language-learning routine is akin to bringing a piece of Germany into your living room. It’s an immersive experience that not only accelerates your path to fluency but also makes the journey incredibly enjoyable.

German TV Shows You Can Watch for Free

You can watch these German TV shows for free even if you don’t live in Germany. Click on the links to view the full episodes. Thanks to streaming platforms and official channels, accessing German entertainment has never been easier.

Whether you’re an avid learner of the language or simply looking for engaging content, these shows offer a diverse range of genres and perspectives. From uproarious comedies to gripping crime dramas, each series brings a unique slice of German culture to your screen.

1 Aufgestaut

Drama

A climate protest group has glued themselves to the street, blocking traffic, much to the dismay of other road users. In this captivating mini-series, each episode unveils a new story and perspective surrounding this pivotal event.

From the passionate activists fighting for environmental change to frustrated commuters caught in the chaos, “Aufgestaut” intricately weaves together a tapestry of interconnected lives. As tensions rise and emotions flare, the series delves into the complexities of modern society, highlighting the clash between urgent calls for change and the everyday struggles of those caught in the middle.

2 Der Bergdoktor

Drama

Der Bergdoktor revolves around the life of Dr. Martin Gruber, a skilled physician who practices in a picturesque Alpine village. While tending to the medical needs of the tight-knit community, Dr. Gruber finds himself entangled in the joys, sorrows, and intricate relationships of the villagers.

The show beautifully combines breathtaking mountain scenery with heartfelt human stories, making it a beloved series for both medical drama enthusiasts and fans of heartfelt storytelling.

3 Der Staatsanwalt

Crime

In Der Staatsanwalt, viewers step into the world of prosecutor Reuther and his dedicated team as they work tirelessly to uncover the truth behind complex criminal cases. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to justice, Reuther navigates the legal system, often unearthing unexpected twists and turns. This gripping legal drama offers a compelling glimpse into the intricacies of German law enforcement.

4 Der Tatortreiniger

Comedy

Der Tatortreiniger, translated as “The Crime Scene Cleaner,” takes a unique and darkly comedic approach to crime dramas. The show centers around Heiko Schotte, a meticulous cleaner tasked with tidying up after gruesome crime scenes. Through the quirky encounters and peculiar backstories of the crime scenes, the series offers a fascinating and often satirical commentary on human nature.

5 Die Chefin

Crime

Die Chefin centers around Vera Lanz, a formidable police commissioner known for her sharp mind and unwavering dedication to solving crimes. Alongside her team, Lanz tackles a range of complex cases, from high-profile murders to delicate investigations. The show delves into Lanz’s personal and professional challenges, providing a multi-layered narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

6 Die Sendung mit der Maus

Children

Die Sendung mit der Maus, translated as “The Show with the Mouse,” is a beloved German educational children’s television program. Combining animation, live-action, and informative segments, the show aims to educate and entertain young viewers.

Each episode explores a wide range of topics, from science and technology to everyday life, presented in an engaging and easily understandable format. With its iconic mascot, a cheerful blue mouse, the show has become a staple of German children’s television, fostering curiosity and learning in generations of viewers.

7 Erste Wege In Deutschland

Educational

Erste Wege In Deutschland translates to “First Steps In Germany.” This series is a valuable resource for newcomers to Germany, offering practical guidance on various aspects of life in the country.

From navigating bureaucracy to understanding cultural nuances, the show provides essential information to help immigrants integrate and thrive in their new environment. With its informative approach and helpful tips, Erste Wege In Deutschland serves as a valuable tool for those embarking on their journey in Germany.

8 Extra Auf Deutsch

Educational

Extra Auf Deutsch is a language education series designed to help learners of German improve their language skills in an entertaining and engaging way. Set in a shared apartment, the show follows the lives of four young characters and their interactions with each other and their neighbors.

Through comedic situations and everyday scenarios, viewers are exposed to practical vocabulary, grammar, and cultural insights. The series offers an effective and enjoyable way to enhance German language proficiency.

9 Ladykracher

Comedy

Ladykracher is a German sketch comedy show known for its sharp wit and humor. Led by the talented Anke Engelke, the series features a wide array of comedic sketches that lampoon various aspects of modern life, from relationships to societal norms. With its quick-paced humor and satirical take on everyday situations, Ladykracher has garnered a dedicated fan base and remains a prominent fixture in German television comedy.

10 Lindenstraße

Drama

Lindenstraße is a long-running German television series that delves into the lives of residents living on a fictional street in Munich. Through its engaging storytelling, the show tackles a wide range of social and political issues, mirroring contemporary German society. Over the years, Lindenstraße has become a cultural touchstone, offering viewers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of its diverse cast of characters.

11 Nicht Nachmachen

Comedy

Nicht Nachmachen, translated as “Do Not Imitate,” is a hilarious German television series that combines science experiments with irreverent humor. Hosted by two witty and adventurous hosts, the show explores a wide range of DIY experiments, often with unexpected and entertaining results.

From attempting to build contraptions to conducting peculiar scientific tests, the hosts’ misadventures make for uproarious viewing. With a blend of curiosity and comic antics, Nicht Nachmachen offers a unique and entertaining take on science education.

12 Nico‘s Weg

Educational

Nico’s Weg is a multimedia language learning series designed to help learners of German at various proficiency levels. The series follows the journey of Nico, a young man who navigates through different aspects of life in Germany.

Through a combination of video episodes, audio clips, and interactive exercises, viewers are immersed in practical language scenarios, cultural insights, and vocabulary building. Nico’s Weg provides an engaging and effective approach to learning German in a real-world context.

13 Pastewka

Comedy

Pastewka is a popular German sitcom that follows the comedic misadventures of Bastian Pastewka, a fictionalized version of the actor himself. The show humorously blurs the lines between fiction and reality as it portrays Bastian’s quirky encounters with family, friends, and the entertainment industry. With its sharp wit and endearing characters, Pastewka has become a staple of German comedy, offering viewers a delightful blend of humor and relatable situations.

14 Schlag den Star

Game show

Schlag den Star, which translates to “Beat the Star,” is an exhilarating German game show where contestants face off against celebrities in a series of challenging competitions. These contests range from physical feats to mental challenges, testing the participants’ skills, strategy, and quick thinking. The show’s high-stakes format and dynamic gameplay make for thrilling entertainment, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they root for their favorite contestant.

15 Stromberg

Comedy

Stromberg is a mockumentary-style sitcom that satirizes office life in a fictional German insurance company. The series centers around Bernd Stromberg, an inept and often inappropriate office manager, and his eccentric colleagues.

Through a combination of cringe-worthy humor and sharp social commentary, Stromberg provides a humorous yet thought-provoking look at the dynamics of corporate culture. With its memorable characters and biting wit, the show has gained a dedicated following and remains a standout in German television comedy.

16 Tatort

Crime

Tatort, which translates to “Crime Scene,” is one of the longest-running and most iconic German television series. It is a crime drama anthology that follows various teams of investigators as they solve homicides in different German cities.

Each episode offers a unique storyline, characters, and settings, providing a diverse and engaging viewing experience. With its combination of suspenseful storytelling and exploration of social issues, Tatort has become a cultural institution in German television.

17 Türkisch Für Anfänger

Comedy

Türkisch Für Anfänger, or “Turkish for Beginners,” is a German sitcom that humorously explores the challenges and cultural clashes that arise when a German mother and her two children move in with a Turkish widower and his two children, creating a blended, multicultural family.

The series navigates the complexities of cultural integration, relationships, and adolescence with a healthy dose of humor and heart. With its relatable characters and witty dialogue, Türkisch Für Anfänger strikes a balance between comedy and insightful commentary.

18 Verbotene Liebe

Soap opera

Verbotene Liebe, translated as “Forbidden Love,” is a popular German soap opera that revolves around the lives, loves, and intrigues of the wealthy von Lahnstein family and their associates. The show delves into the complexities of relationships, business, and societal expectations, often with a touch of melodrama and suspense.

Over its long run, Verbotene Liebe became known for its compelling characters and dramatic plot twists, making it a beloved fixture in German television drama.

German TV Shows You Can Watch on Your Favorite Streaming Service

With the global reach of streaming platforms, accessing German TV shows has never been more convenient. Many popular streaming services offer a curated selection of German content, allowing you to explore German television from the comfort of your own couch. Whether you’re a subscriber to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or other platforms, you’ll find a treasure trove of captivating shows that cater to all tastes and interests.

These services provide an excellent opportunity to dive into German entertainment, making it easy to discover new series, revisit classics, and explore the latest releases. From award-winning dramas to binge-worthy comedies, there’s something for everyone. So, grab your remote and get ready for a binge-watching adventure that combines entertainment with language learning.

19 Babylon Berlin

Historical drama

Babylon Berlin is a critically acclaimed German neo-noir television series set in the 1920s, during the Weimar Republic era. This visually stunning show follows Gereon Rath, a police inspector, as he navigates the gritty underworld of Berlin while uncovering political intrigue, crime, and societal unrest. With its lavish period details and intricate plotlines, Babylon Berlin offers a mesmerizing blend of historical drama, crime thriller, and political intrigue that has captivated audiences worldwide.

(Note: Watch in ARD Mediathek if you live in Germany)

20 Biohackers

Sci-fi thriller

Biohackers is a German science fiction thriller that revolves around Mia, a medical student who enrolls in a prestigious university to investigate a dark conspiracy involving cutting-edge genetic research.

As she delves deeper into the world of biohacking, ethics, and scientific ethics, Mia finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and moral dilemmas. With its high-stakes storyline and thought-provoking themes, Biohackers combines elements of suspense, ethical quandaries, and futuristic technology in a gripping narrative.

21 Charité

Drama

Charité is a historical medical drama series set in the renowned Charité hospital in Berlin during different time periods. The show explores the lives of pioneering doctors and their groundbreaking medical discoveries amidst the backdrop of war, societal change, and scientific progress.

With its meticulous attention to historical detail and compelling character development, Charité offers viewers a captivating journey through the evolution of medicine and the challenges faced by medical professionals in different eras.

22 Dark

Sci-fi thriller

Dark is a mind-bending German science fiction thriller that delves into time travel, family secrets, and interconnected timelines in a small German town. As a series of mysterious events unfold, spanning several generations, the show weaves a complex narrative that challenges perceptions of time and reality. With its intricate plot and multi-dimensional characters, Dark has garnered international acclaim for its intricate storytelling and exploration of existential themes.

23 Deutschland 83

Spy

Deutschland 83 is a gripping espionage thriller set against the backdrop of the Cold War. The series follows Martin Rauch, a young East German border guard who is recruited as an undercover agent in West Germany.

Immersed in the world of espionage, Martin navigates the complex relationships between East and West, all while contending with personal and political dilemmas. With its taut suspense and authentic portrayal of the era, Deutschland 83 offers a riveting exploration of the ideological tensions of the time.

24 Doctor’s Diary

Drama

Doctor’s Diary (Original title: “Doctor’s Diary – Männer sind die beste Medizin”) is a German romantic comedy-drama series that follows the life of Gretchen Haase, a young doctor who begins her residency at a hospital.

As Gretchen juggles her demanding career, complicated love life, and quirky colleagues, the show combines humor, romance, and medical drama in an entertaining and heartfelt manner. With its endearing characters and witty dialogue, Doctor’s Diary has become a beloved staple of German television.

25 Dogs of Berlin

Crime

Dogs of Berlin is a gritty German crime drama series that takes place in the diverse and complex city of Berlin. When two detectives from different backgrounds are forced to work together to solve a high-profile murder, they uncover a web of corruption, crime syndicates, and political intrigue.

The show explores themes of identity, power, and the underbelly of urban life in a city where cultures collide. With its intense storytelling and compelling characters, Dogs of Berlin offers a thrilling and thought-provoking viewing experience.

26 The Weissensee Saga

Historical drama

The Weissensee Saga (Original title: “Weissensee”) is a captivating German drama series set in East Berlin during the turbulent years of the German Democratic Republic. The show revolves around two families, the Kupfers and the Hausmanns, whose lives become entangled during political upheaval, personal struggles, and forbidden love.

With its rich historical backdrop and complex characters, The Weissensee Saga offers a poignant exploration of love, loyalty, and the challenges faced by individuals during a pivotal period in German history.

Where to Find More German TV Shows

If you’re hungry for more German television content beyond the curated list provided, there are several platforms and channels that offer an extensive selection of shows. Whether you’re seeking riveting dramas, uproarious comedies, or informative documentaries, these sources have you covered. Here are some top platforms to explore:

• ARD Mediathek (Most series within Germany, some available outside of Germany)
• Galileo TV – (Only within Germany)
• ProSieben Video – (Register for a free account to watch full series within Germany)
• ZDF Mediathek (Within and Outside of Germany available)
• SAT.1 (Only in Germany)
• My Spass (Widespread availability in most regions)

These platforms offer a wide range of options, from the latest releases to timeless classics. Remember, while some may have regional restrictions, you’ll still find a wealth of captivating content to keep you entertained and immersed in the German language and culture.

Final Thoughts

In the world of language learning, the journey to mastery is often paved with dedication, curiosity, and immersive experiences. German TV shows provide a unique and entertaining path to linguistic fluency. Through gripping dramas, side-splitting comedies, and thought-provoking documentaries, you not only absorb the nuances of the language but also gain a deeper understanding of German culture.

As you delve into these captivating series, remember that every episode is a step towards your goal of speaking German like a native. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the small victories, and revel in the joy of discovering a new world through language.