29 Great Nordic Noir & Scandi Drama Series To Binge (Ranked)

It is no doubt a golden age for Nordic crime drama in particular and Scandi-style TV series in general, which means it’s harder than ever to sift through all the options and decide what to watch next.

After all, following a show can be a bit of a commitment, even more so if it’s in a foreign language. And there’s nothing worse than getting invested into a show that seems promising, only to see it drop drastically in quality after a season or two.

So I’ve listed my favorite Nordic Noir and Scandi Drama series below that I think you should check out if you’re into the Scandinavian genre (and they’re all sorted by a combined average rating).

The 29 Best Nordic Noir & Scandi Drama Series:

^{Watch the trailer for Bron / Broen above}

Why is Bron worth watching?

You might know it as Bron (Swedish), Broen (Danish), or The Bridge (not to be confused with the US remake from 2013), either way, Bron/Broen is likely the best Nordic Noir series out there, and a must-watch if you haven’t already seen it.

The series is a joint Swedish/Danish collaboration project through and through;

• It’s co-produced by SVT and DR (each country’s respective public service TV station),
• The whole story is centered around the Swedish city of Malmö and the neighboring Danish capital Copenhagen across the sound (the two cities are connected by the bridge behind the series’ name)
• It’s based around the countries cooperating and solving the murder of a body found on the two countries’ exact border (thus falling within both countries jurisdiction)
• The basis of the story is a collaboration of Swedish police detective Saga Norén and her Danish counterpart Martin Rohde.

The show features both beautiful and moody imagery from the cities of Malmö and Copenhagen (and their surroundings), and a modern and dynamic soundtrack that fits the setting perfectly. It touches on interesting themes and subjects such as betrayal, seeking validation from others, taking responsibility, finding your identity, and living within the autistic spectrum.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Borgen above}

Why is Borgen worth watching?

Borgen is a gripping political story with excellent characters and storylines, providing an interesting insight into the best and worst of human tendencies when power is involved. A central theme of the show is balancing work and personal life, an important part of the Scandinavian culture (and a battle many of us are familiar with).

The series is centered around Danish politics and media and is primarily set in Copenhagen, the country’s capital.

It dives into complex subjects such as political strategy, navigating morals and ethics when you are in a position of power, and handling the consequences of ones actions.

The characters are complex and believable, and if you ever wanted to watch a Scandinavian hybrid of West Wing and Newsroom, this would be the closest thing you’ll find.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Ófærð (Trapped) above}

Why is Trapped worth watching?

Trapped offers Icelandic scenery, a haunting score, engaging and believable characters, and a dark small-town murder mystery—an excellent combination for a gripping Nordic Noir series from Icelandic Baltasar Kormakur.

You will get an insight into the secluded Icelandic reality of life on a remote part of a remote island, with ruthless weather, unavoidable isolation, and very dark secrets.

I love the layered characters and complex storyline, and can safely say that if you’re into dark, moody Nordic Noir, you’ll love this.

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^{Watch the trailer for Forbrydelsen (The Killing) above}

Why is Forbrydelsen worth watching?

The Killing is a realistic and thrilling depiction of the dark worlds of finance and politics. With great characters, beautiful photography, and excellent acting, it’s a joy biting your nails as you follow Sarah Lund’s investigations of dirty business and mysterious murders.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Kalifat above}

Why is Kalifat worth watching?

A fresh and controversial perspective on the global and specifically Scandinavian battle with terrorism, with great characters, acting, and an extremely gripping story.

The series features powerful scenes from life as an IS soldier, and does not rely on epic effects to keep you at the edge of your seat. It is extremely hard to stop watching it, and the director and actors all do a phenomenal job throughout the first season.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Wallander above}

Why is Wallander worth watching?

This may feel a bit weird, but an English series made it on the Nordic Noir list! Kenneth Branagh nails the best portrayal of Henning Mankell‘s southern Swedish police detective Kurt Wallander in this series that takes place and was filmed in Ystad, Sweden.

There are Swedish adaptations of the books that are also really good, but I think the BBC series does it really well and deserves its own spot this list.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Chestnut Man above}

Why is Chestnut Man worth watching?

A gripping Scandinavian noir, Chestnut Man captivates with its complex narrative and deep psychological exploration. Its setting in Copenhagen adds a moody, atmospheric backdrop to a story that balances the macabre details of crime with the emotional depth of its characters.

The series is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and Scandinavian noir, offering a tense, immersive experience that’s both thought-provoking and unsettling.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Beforeigners above}

Why is Beforeigners worth watching?

Beforeigners offers a refreshing twist on the crime genre by integrating a sci-fi element — the sudden appearance of people from the past in modern-day Oslo. This unique premise serves as a fertile ground for exploring themes of immigration, identity, and societal integration, all wrapped in a mystery that’s as intriguing as it is unconventional.

The series excels in its world-building, creating a believable scenario where Vikings, Victorians, and other time immigrants strive to adapt to the 21st century, leading to both humorous and poignant moments. The central mystery, intertwined with the challenges of these “beforeigners,” adds depth to the narrative, making it not only a detective story but also a commentary on current social issues.

For those who enjoy genre-bending narratives that combine historical drama, science fiction, and crime-solving, “Beforeigners” is a uniquely (and surprisingly!) engaging watch.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Sorjonen above}

Why is Bordertown worth watching?

The complexities of border areas is something we have gotten familiar with in other Nordic Noir series (the obvious example being The Bridge), and Bordertown delivers a very interesting perspective of the Finnish/Russian border town of Lappeenranta/Villmanstrand.

We get to follow the hyper-intelligent investigator Kari Sorjonen and the familiar dark shades of murder mysteries and psychopathic killers.

If you’re into Sherlock Holmes and American Psycho, this series will likely scratch your Nordic Noir itch perfectly.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Nobel above}

Why is Nobel worth watching?

Nobel offers a unique blend of military drama and political intrigue against the backdrop of Norway’s involvement in Afghanistan. It poses profound questions about the cost of warfare and the ethics of political decisions, both abroad and at home. The personal and political fallout of military decisions is explored through the lead character, a Norwegian Special Forces officer, whose story is a personal narrative entwined with broader geopolitical strategies.

The series shines for its high production values, compelling performances, and a narrative that resonates globally, making it a must-watch for those intrigued by the intricate balance between duty and morality in the modern world.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for The Saboteurs above}

Why is Kampen om tungtvannet worth watching?

The series offers a riveting look at a crucial, though often overlooked, chapter of WWII history, showcasing the bravery and sacrifice of the Norwegian resistance. The narrative weaves a detailed account of wartime espionage with the personal stories at its heart, underpinned by high production values and stunning Norwegian landscapes.

For those interested in WWII history, resistance movements, and the ethical dilemmas of war, The Saboteurs is an immersive and enlightening watch that brings a pivotal historical moment to life.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Okkupert above}

Why is Okkupert worth watching?

What will happen if a country all of a sudden stops pumping oil for environmental reasons? This is a very interesting question that we get to explore in Occupied, which handles tender subjects such as global warming, Russian influence on Europe, and national autonomy — definitely relevant subjects in today’s violent political climate.

The show even had an impact on our real world, as the premiere resulted in Russia’s embassy handing in a formal protest against Swedish network SVT for streaming the show to Swedes, which should tell you something about the story and themes of the show.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Deadwind above}

Why is Karppi worth watching?

Karppi (“Deadwind”) combines the intricacy of a murder investigation with the personal story of its main detective, Sofia Karppi, who is grappling with her own grief. Set in Helsinki, the series is as much a crime thriller as it is an exploration of coping with loss and finding strength amidst adversity.

The cases are complex and deeply intertwined with the social fabric of Finland, offering insights into issues ranging from corporate corruption to environmental activism.

I love the moody, atmospheric setting of Helsinki, which definitely adds to the series’ sense of melancholy and mystery, making it a standout for those who appreciate crime dramas that delve into the emotional as well as the procedural aspects of crime-solving. “Deadwind” is a compelling mix of suspense, emotion, and social commentary, ensuring a captivating watch for fans of the genre.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Tunna Blå Linjen above}

Why is Tunna blå linjen worth watching?

Having grown up in and lived in Malmö för most of my life, Tunna Blå Linjen is one of the first series that has actually managed to capture and portray an honest and modern Malmö story, with believable characters and a human side to it that feels genuine. Sure, it has it’s moments when I feel like the writers are straying a bit too far away from the real world, but all in all this is aheartfelt tv production that reflects life in Malmö fairly well.

We get to follow surprisingly believable police characters in their day-to-day life in one of the more controversial cities in Sweden; Malmö. The city is often featured in media as a crime-ridden place without hope, but as both the show and reality will reveal — it’s not that black and white.

Malmö can be both beautiful and ugly (culture-wise and city-wise), and Tunna blå linjen does a decent job presenting this complexity. I’ve written an article listing all the reasons you need to go visit Malmö if you want to find out more about the city in general.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Wisting above}

Why is Wisting worth watching?

“Wisting” combines the scenic beauty of Norway with the grim realities of crime, presenting a series that’s both visually captivating and narratively engaging.

At its core, it’s a story of moral dilemmas, familial bonds, and the relentless pursuit of justice, as seen through the eyes of William Wisting, a detective with a penchant for unraveling complex cases.

The series excels in weaving together multiple storylines, each rich with emotional depth and suspense, making it more than just a crime procedural.

Its strength lies in its character development, especially that of Wisting, whose personal and professional lives become entangled in unexpected ways. The stark Norwegian setting, with its vast landscapes and small-town vibe, adds an additional layer of isolation and suspense, making “Wisting” a standout for those who appreciate the intricacies of crime-solving amidst nature’s unforgiving backdrop.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Hjem til jul above}

Why is Home for Christmas worth watching?

Home for Christmas is something a bit different; a witty but engaging drama taking us on a Norwegian Love Actually-esque love story, where we follow Johanne on her quest for a partner.

The show looks great, and Ida Elise Broch does an excellent job portraying the more and more desperate Johanne.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Den Som Dræber above}

Why is Den som dræber worth watching?

Those Who Kill is a fast-paced, thrilling Nordic Noir series following a special unit within the Copenhagen police.

Good characters, solid story, and great episodes where we get to follow the hunt for a serial killer on the loose.

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^{Watch the trailer for Jägarna above}

Why is Jägarna worth watching?

When the first Jägarna movie came out, it gave a moody, depressing, but gripping account of life in Northern Sweden (Norrland) that spread across Sweden like a wildfire.

The uniquely melancholic, remote, and beautiful Norrland is rarely the setting of Swedish productions so it’s a treat to get an insight into the nuances of life in the deep and dark north.

Since then another movie has come out plus a recent series with many of the same actors, keeping up the dark and suspenseful style of the movies (which are considered classics by many Swedes).

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^{Watch the trailer for Resjeholdet (Unit One) above}

Why is Rejseholdet worth watching?

Rejseholdet feels like old-school Nordic Noir, and features a set of great characters that all feer very real and relatable, with their own challenging baggage that they deal with in their daily life as a police investigator.

Each episode centers around a new crime, and almost always contains twists that keep you glued to the TV throughout, and looking forward to the next episode.

Unlike most of the other Danish shows on this list, we also get to see a bit more of Denmark than just Copenhagen, which is refreshing and a big plus in my book.

The cast includes an excellent Mads Mikkelsen (from international hit franchises such as James Bond, Star Wars, and Hannibal) in his first big TV role after breaking through with smaller Danish movies such as Pusher, Bleeder, and Flickering Lights (all worth a watch too!).

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Gåsmamman above}

Why is Gåsmamman worth watching?

This is an interesting story in the mold of Bron and Wallander, in which we follow “Goose mother” Sonja from a mostly normal life to one in which she is balancing organized crime and protecting her family.

Kind of a cross between Erin Brockovich and Breaking Bad, if you want to believe the promotional work of the showmakers.

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^{Watch the trailer for Midnattssol above}

Why is Midnattssol worth watching?

This is a unique French and Swedish collaboration centered around a mysterious murder in the arctic northern Sweden. It touches on Sami culture and dark myths of the north.

In true Scandinavian Noir fashion, the series leaves you at the edge of your seat as you follow along in the thrilling investigation by Swedish and French police.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Beck above}

Why is Beck worth watching?

Beck is a classic Swedish crime drama, with famous characters and a longevity few other series can match.

The rage of Gunvald and the calculated police work of Martin creates a great chemistry on screen, and although it doesn’t quite reach the heights of more modern Nordic Noir, it’s still worth checking out if you have the time!

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^{Watch the trailer for Bedrag (Follow the Money) above}

Why is Bedrag (Follow the Money) worth watching?

Follow the Money is a Danish series focusing on greed, financial crime and not-so clean energy, and when it’s created by “Borgen” author Jeppe Gjervig Gram you know it’s definitely worth the watch.

Inside Energreen’s very Scandinavian and minimalist offices we get to follow corporate ambition and greed, coupled with loads of shady dealings and inter-office drama.

We also get to follow the fate of young mechanic and new father Nicky, who falls into old car-thieving habits in order to make a quick buck for his family.

Bedrag is a steely, elegant, and suspenseful show that delivers intricate plots and revelations as soon as it has warmed up after a slightly heavy-handed start.

It’s professional, well-acted, and expertly directed by Per Fly – but perhaps not immediately gripping in the way we’ve come to expect from other Scandinavian crime series.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Innan vi dör above}

Why is Innan vi dör worth watching?

This shows sheds some light on the Stockholm underworld of drugs, gangs, and organized crime, along with an interesting perspective within a police investigative unit.

A police investigator’s son spirals out of control after he is put in jail by his own mother, and we get to explore the grimy world of Stockholm’s organized crime in an eerily fascinating way.

We follow the struggle between a police mother and a criminal son, and we get an insight into how the darker side of the Swedish capital looks.

The characters feel real enough, and the story definitely keeps you on your toes as it progresses through storylines and subjects you don’t expect across the three seasons.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Efterforskningen above}

Why is Efterforskningen worth watching?

The series documents the mysterious real-world case from 2017 when a Swedish journalist went missing after doing research for an article on a submarine with a Danish contractor. The sub is found with traces of murder, but the journalist is missing.

From the creators of Borgen, the Investigation delivers a similar mood and style with some familiar faces. You find yourself gasping and wanting more after each episode, and it is very interesting finding out more about this most peculiar real-world case.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for The Valhall Murders above}

Why is The Valhalla Murders worth watching?

The Valhalla Murders is a solid Nordic Noir mini series that follows the genre very well, with a gripping story and complex characters that grow as the show goes on.

Along with the main character we are taken to Iceland, for a beautiful and dark setting that fits the mysterious murders perfectly.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Dicte above}

Why is Dicte worth watching?

If you liked Borgen, you’ll most likely enjoy Dicte as well, with many familiar faces and a story that holds you tight throughout the show.

We get to follow the interesting battle between a reporter trying to protect her sources, and a police investigator trying to find the truth.

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^{Watch the trailer for / Our Time is Now above}

Why is Vår tid är nu worth watching?

Vår tid är nu (“Our Time is Now” / “The Restaurant”) is a sweeping saga that traces the fortunes of a family-owned restaurant in Stockholm through the tumultuous mid-20th century, offering a captivating blend of historical drama, romance, and family dynamics.

I absolutely love the atmosphere the creators have achieved and have nothing but good things to say about the characters and cast (many of which are from the cult classic “Lorry” gang).

As I alluded to, the series excels in its detailed portrayal of the era, from post-war recovery to the social changes of the 60s, all seen through the lens of the restaurant and the lives it touches. It’s a story about ambition, secrets, and the resilience of the human spirit, with each character’s journey reflecting broader societal shifts.

The rich historical context, combined with emotionally charged storytelling and strong performances, makes Vår tid är nu a must-watch for those who love dramas that bring history to life while exploring universal themes of love, loss, and redemption.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

^{Watch the trailer for Acquitted above}

Why is Frikjent worth watching?

Frikjent (“Acquitted“) delves into the complexities of redemption, guilt, and the long shadows cast by the past. Set in a small Norwegian town, the series follows the return of a successful businessman acquitted of a murder in his youth, only to find himself confronted by the unresolved suspicions and secrets of his past.

The series is a masterclass in slow-burn suspense, gradually unraveling a tangled web of lies, loyalty, and betrayal that captivates until the very end.

The scenic backdrop of the Norwegian countryside contrasts sharply with the dark undercurrents of the story, highlighting the isolation and tension that pervade the community. “Frikjent” is for viewers who appreciate a deeply emotional narrative that challenges the notions of innocence and justice, all while offering a gripping mystery.

↗️ Find where to stream on JustWatch

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Summary:

The Nordic Noir & Scandi Drama genres have spawned a ton of really good quality shows that capture that uniquely dark, minimalistic, grounded, warm, and ultimately human feeling you can only get in the modern Nordic sagas.

I’ve watched more than I’d like to admit and can personally recommend all of the series in this article for your next Nordic-themed TV binge!

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