For today’s language-learning adventure, we’re going to dive into the world of German TV shows. In this article, we will explore the best German TV shows that will not only entertain you but also enhance your language-learning experience.
Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate learner, these TV series offer a fun and engaging way to improve your fluency, comprehension, and pronunciation skills.
Get ready to discover a wide range of captivating German TV shows that will transport you to different eras, explore thrilling crime scenes, and provide valuable insights into German history and culture.
German TV Shows for Beginners
Below are some German TV shows for beginner German learners.
Extra Auf Deutsch
“Extra auf Deutsch” is a language-learning television series created for German learners. It is designed to help beginner and intermediate learners improve their German language skills through an entertaining sitcom-style format.
The show follows the lives of four main characters: Sam, a young American who moves to Germany; Nico, his German flatmate; Anna, their neighbor and love interest for Nico; and Sascha, another neighbor and friend.
The characters engage in various comedic situations and everyday scenarios, which provide opportunities for language learning. Each episode focuses on different language topics, such as vocabulary, grammar, and cultural aspects.
The show serves as a valuable resource for practicing listening comprehension and expanding language skills.
Verbotene Liebe (Forbidden Love)
“Verbotene Liebe” is a long-running German soap opera that captivated audiences with its compelling storylines and dramatic twists.
Set in the glamorous world of the wealthy, the show explores themes of love, betrayal, and family secrets. With its talented cast and intricate plotlines, “Verbotene Liebe” became a favorite among viewers, earning a dedicated fanbase.
The series not only entertained but also showcased the complexities of human relationships. Its enduring popularity made it one of the most beloved German TV shows of all time.
German TV Shows for Intermediate Learners
Below are some German TV shows for intermediate German learners.
Türkisch Für Anfänger (Turkish For Beginners)
“Türkisch Für Anfänger” is a popular German TV series that follows the hilarious and heartwarming adventures of a blended Turkish-German family.
Using clever humor and relatable characters, the show explores cultural differences and the challenges of navigating two distinct worlds.
The series strikes a perfect balance between comedy and heartfelt moments, making it a delightful and entertaining watch for both language learners and general audiences.
Through its engaging storylines and lovable characters, “Türkisch Für Anfänger” offers an enjoyable way to immerse oneself in the German language and culture.
Deutschland Von Oben (Germany from Above)
“Deutschland Von Oben” is a captivating documentary series that showcases Germany’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage from an aerial perspective.
Through stunning aerial footage, viewers are treated to breathtaking views of Germany’s iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and bustling cities. The series provides a unique and immersive way to explore the country’s history, geography, and culture.
With its visually stunning cinematography and informative narration, “Deutschland Von Oben” offers an engaging and educational experience for anyone interested in discovering the beauty and diversity of Germany from a bird’s-eye view.
Der Tatortreiniger (The Crime Scene Cleaner)
“Der Tatortreiniger” is a popular German TV series that follows the life of Heiko “Schotty” Schotte, a crime scene cleaner who tidies up after violent incidents.
This unique comedy-drama combines dark humor with insightful storytelling as Schotty encounters various intriguing characters and reflects on life while scrubbing away the remnants of tragedy.
The show employed clever writing and engaging performances to provide a fresh and unconventional take on crime scenes and stories.
It’s a thought-provoking and entertaining series that explores the themes of mortality, human nature, and the unexpected beauty that can be found amidst the chaos.
Stromberg
“Stromberg” is a popular German comedy series that revolves around the misadventures of Bernd Stromberg, a bumbling and politically incorrect office manager.
Set in the fictional insurance company, Capitol Versicherung, the show hilariously depicts the absurdities of corporate life and the idiosyncrasies of its employees.
Through its sharp wit and satire, “Stromberg” tackles themes of office politics, power struggles, and the clash of personalities.
The series offers a humorous and relatable portrayal of the everyday challenges faced in the workplace, making it a must-watch for fans of comedy and workplace satire.
Tatort
“Tatort” is a long-running German crime drama series that follows various investigative teams solving crimes in different cities across Germany.
Each episode presents a standalone case, allowing viewers to dive into captivating murder mysteries filled with suspense and twists.
“Tatort” has become a beloved and iconic V show in Germany owing to its realistic portrayal of crime investigation and complex characters.
It explores a wide range of social and cultural issues, making it not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.
Lindenstraße (Linden Street)
“Lindenstraße” is a popular German soap opera that aired for over 34 years, making it one of the longest-running TV shows in the country.
Set in a fictional residential street in Munich, the series revolves around the lives of diverse characters, tackling social and political issues.
With its realistic portrayal of everyday life, Lindenstraße became a cultural phenomenon, addressing topics such as relationships, family dynamics, and societal changes.
Dark
“Dark” is a critically acclaimed German science fiction thriller series that gained international recognition.
The show revolves around time travel, mysteries, and the interconnected lives of four families in a small town.
The atmospheric setting and suspenseful narrative captivated audiences, earning praise for its thought-provoking themes and engaging plot twists. “Dark” explored concepts of fate, free will, and the consequences of our actions.
Dog of Berlin
“Dogs of Berlin” is an intense German crime drama that delves into the Berlin underworld.
In this German series, a politically sensitive murder forces two disparate detectives to confront the criminal underworld of Berlin and face up to their own corruption.
The plot explores the complexities of the characters’ personal lives, their professional challenges, and the societal issues prevalent in the city.
Due to its gripping storyline, intricate character development, and gritty portrayal of the Berlin mafia, “Dogs of Berlin” offers a thrilling and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Das Boot
“Das Boot” is a gripping WWII drama that follows the journey of an inexperienced U-boat crew. Set during a secret mission, they must navigate the perils of World War II and strive to survive in treacherous waters.
The storyline also intertwines the narrative of a young German woman who finds herself torn between her loyalty to her home country and her involvement with the French resistance.
With its intense portrayal of the challenges faced by both the crew and the woman, “Das Boot” offers a compelling exploration of war, sacrifice, and conflicting loyalties in Nazi Germany.
How to Learn by Watching German TV Shows
Here are some helpful tips on how to learn German by engaging with the best German tv shows.
Prepare a Vocabulary List
Preparing a vocabulary list is a great way to retain new words learned while watching TV. By compiling a list of useful words and phrases, you can focus on memorizing and using these words in appropriate contexts.
A well-organized vocabulary list enables you to expand your vernacular, improve communication, and build a solid foundation for further language development.
Read the Show Description
Reading the show description is an important step in selecting what to watch. It provides a brief overview of the series, highlighting its plot, genre, and key themes.
Consider the show’s description to determine if the German series aligns with your interests and language learning goals. For instance, do you want to focus on family-related vocabulary? Or would you rather learn about the Berlin Wall and East Germany?
Use Subtitles Effectively
Using subtitles effectively can enhance your language learning experience. Whether you choose to use English or German subtitles, they help you to understand and follow along with the spoken words.
When using German subtitles, pay close attention to the vocabulary, sentence structure, and pronunciation. Pause and replay scenes if needed, allowing yourself time to absorb the information.
Subtitles can serve as a valuable tool in improving your listening comprehension and expanding your vocabulary in the target language.
Enjoy the Program and Focus on Context
When watching a program in your target language, it’s important to enjoy the content and focus on the context. Immerse yourself in the story and characters, paying attention to their interactions and emotions.
Try to understand the overall plot and follow the narrative flow. Even if you don’t understand every word, you can still grasp the meaning through the context.
Where to Find German TV Shows
There are various platforms where you can find German TV shows to watch. Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu offer a wide selection of German content.
You can also explore free streaming platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, where you may find German shows and channels.
Additionally, libraries and language learning websites might provide access to German TV shows for educational purposes.
With these options, you can easily find and enjoy German TV shows to enhance your language-learning journey.
FAQs About Using German TV Shows for Language Learning
Let’s look at some of the most frequently asked questions about learning German with TV series.
Are there any German shows on Netflix?
Yes, there are numerous German shows available on Netflix. Netflix offers a diverse selection of German TV series, ranging from thrilling crime dramas like “Dark”, “The Crime Scene Cleaner”, and “Babylon Berlin” to compelling historical dramas like “Charité” and “The Same Sky.”
With Netflix’s extensive collection, language learners have ample opportunities to explore German culture and improve their language skills through these captivating shows.
What should I watch if I want to learn German?
If you want to learn German, there are several excellent options to watch on Netflix.
“Deutschland 83” is a highly recommended show that combines espionage with Cold War-era politics, offering an immersive experience for language learners.
“Türkisch für Anfänger” is a lighthearted comedy series that follows the humorous adventures of a blended German-Turkish family, providing an entertaining way to improve your language skills.
Additionally, the documentary series “Die Deutschen” offers a historical perspective on German culture, making it both educational and engaging for German language learners.
What is “How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast)”?
“How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast)” is a German coming-of-age crime television series that streams on Netflix. The German television series uses a lot of classic dark humor and it can be streamed with German audio and English subtitles, or German subtitles.
What is the longest-running German TV show?
The longest-running German TV show on this list is “Tatort.” This crime series has been on the air since 1970 and is known for its regional variations, featuring different detective teams across various German cities.
With over 1,000 episodes produced to date, “Tatort” has become an iconic staple of German television, captivating audiences with its engaging mysteries and diverse characters. Its enduring popularity and longevity make it the longest-running German TV show in history.
Summing Up the Best German Shows: A Language Learning Adventure
Embarking on a language-learning journey through German TV shows is a fun and effective way to enhance your language skills.
By immersing yourself in these German shows, you’ll not only enjoy compelling storylines but also absorb the nuances of the German language.
From crime scene mysteries to historical dramas, each show offers a unique learning experience. So, grab some popcorn, find your favorite German TV series, and immerse yourself in the world of German television.