12 Comfort Netflix Shows You Can Watch From Start to Finish This Weekend

On another weekend, you might be in the mood for a complex drama, a convoluted fantasy series, or a chilling true crime story. But this weekend? You need a break. Some TV shows are comfort food to your brain—the perfect antidote to a long and stressful week. And it's even better if your selection is short enough to knock out in a few days. To help you figure out what soothing series you should queue up as you kick back, we've pulled together this list of the best (short!) comfort TV shows Netflix has to offer. Keep reading for ideas, and for suggestions for another service, here are 14 TV Shows You Can Watch on Hulu From Start to Finish This Weekend

1 | Emily in Paris

Carole Bethuel/Netflix

Lily Collins stars as the titular American in Paris in this series from the creator of Sex and the City. It won't set your world on fire, but if you're seeking the satisfaction that only over-the-top fashion, gorgeous scenery, and the most unrealistic plots can offer, Emily in Paris may be exactly what you need this weekend. For more short marathon recommendations, check out 13 Netflix Shows You Can Watch From Start to Finish This Weekend.

2 | High Score

Netflix

Kids who grew up gaming in the '80s and '90s will especially appreciate the Netflix docuseries High Score, but it also has plenty to offer today's gamers (or anyone interested in technology and storytelling), too. From the heyday of arcade games to the development of 3D graphics, this addictive show chronicles this innovative period. And for extra authenticity, it's narrated by Charles Martinet—that's Mario the plumber to you.

3 | Bridgerton

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Based on a popular book series and produced by Shonda Rhimes, Bridgerton is the spiciest period drama in recent memory. Featuring a racially diverse cast, the show focuses on the romantic lives of two neighboring families. Season 2 is on its way, so be sure to catch up with this buzzy series so you can get in on all the gossip. For more recommendations sent right to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.

4 | Cobra Kai

Netflix

Is nostalgia your comfort TV sweet spot? Then you need to check out Cobra Kai, the surprisingly great TV sequel to the beloved Karate Kid film franchise. The series, which started on YouTube and then moved to Netflix, continues the story with several original stars. And though there are three full seasons on the streaming service already, the episodes are short enough that you can binge it all before Monday if you put your mind to it.

5 | Nadiya Bakes

Netflix

Few genres are quite as calming as the baking show, and this one stars one of the most charming Great British Bake-Off winners in the show's history. Whether you watch Nadiya Hussain's solo show for baking tips or just to zone out on the couch while she constructs picture-perfect desserts, Nadiya Bakes will lower your blood pressure. For shows to watch on another popular service, check out 14 TV Shows You Can Watch on HBO Max From Start to Finish This Weekend.

6 | Virgin River

Netflix

Perhaps this pandemic has you fantasizing about escaping to the country, someplace where no one knows you. That means you already have a lot in common with Mel Monroe (Alexandra Breckenridge), the protagonist of this gentle drama. Formerly of L.A., she moves to the small California town of the title to slow down and find herself. Naturally, she also discovers love while she's at it.

7 | Song Exploder

Matt Sayles/Netflix

In this TV version of the popular podcast, host Hrishikesh Hirway goes behind-the-scenes of some of the most iconic songs ever recorded, digging in with the artists about how and why they were written. And for the best quick binges on Amazon, check out 12 Shows You Can Watch on Amazon Prime from Start to Finish This Weekend.

8 | Derry Girls

Netflix

Taking place in the '90s in Northern Ireland, Derry Girls sets a hilarious teen comedy against a backdrop of political unrest. You'll speed through the first two seasons of the ensemble's uproarious antics in no time, but never fear: Season 3 is on its way, just a little late due to the pandemic.

9 | Julie and the Phantoms

Kailey Schwerman/Netflix

How's this for a premise? A young girl mourning her mother finds her passion for music and performing again after she meets and befriends the ghosts of a boy band who died in a plane crash. Julie and the Phantoms may be aimed at a kid and teen audience, but the musical dramedy is an endearing and unexpectedly emotional watch for adults too. For some ever-so-slightly darker marathons, here are The Best True Crime Shows on Netflix You Can Finish in a Weekend.

10 | Crash Landing on You

Netflix

Netflix has a solid slate of Korean romantic dramas, including this one about a South Korean heiress who literally crash lands into North Korea while our paragliding, then forges an unlikely relationship with a military captain. It's loosely based on a true story and was a massive hit in its country of origin.

11 | Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp

Gemma la Manna/Netflix

On Netflix, the minds behind the 2001 satire flick Wet Hot American Summer have expanded the universe in both directions. So once you're finished with First Day at Camp, the prequel series to the wild and occasionally otherworldly events that take place in the '80s summer camp parody, you can move onto Ten Years Later, the equally weird and hilarious sequel series. Both shows brought back huge stars from the original, including Bradley Cooper, Amy Poehler, and Paul Rudd, and sprinkled in some new cameos from celebrity fans.

12 | Gentefied

Kevin Estrada/Netflix

Last year, Netflix debuted Gentefied, an uplifting comedy about hope, family, and one very special taco shop. It features a ton of fresh talent and dialogue in both English and Spanish, representing the experience of Mexican American teens growing up in L.A. And the even better news is that it's already been renewed for Season 2.