What are the top college romance TV series?

'Emily in Paris' is a fun, frothy, and incredibly stylish romantic comedy that, while focusing on post-college life, still captures that 'new city, new romance' energy that's so often associated with college years. Emily Cooper, a marketing executive from Chicago, gets her dream job in Paris, and what ensues is a whirlwind of cultural clashes, fashion statements, and, of course, plenty of romantic entanglements. The show is pure escapism, offering stunning Parisian backdrops and a wardrobe to die for.

Emily's journey to adapt to French culture and make a name for herself is central, but her various romantic pursuits are a major highlight. The will-they-won't-they with her charming chef neighbor Gabriel is a constant source of tension and delight. It's a show that doesn't take itself too seriously, instead opting for lighthearted fun and aspirational living. If you're looking for a vibrant, feel-good series with beautiful scenery and a healthy dose of romance, 'Emily in Paris' is a delightful treat.

'Dash & Lily' is an absolutely charming and whimsical holiday romance that perfectly captures the excitement and anxieties of young love, even if it's not strictly set in college. This limited series follows cynical Dash and optimistic Lily as they exchange dares, dreams, and secrets in a notebook passed back and forth across New York City during the Christmas season. It's a delightful modern take on a classic pen pal romance, but with a festive, urban twist.

The show is incredibly sweet and earnest, with two wonderfully quirky protagonists who are easy to root for. The way their relationship develops through written words before they ever properly meet is utterly captivating, highlighting the power of connection through shared thoughts and vulnerabilities. It's a perfect blend of holiday cheer, coming-of-age introspection, and budding romance, making it an ideal watch for anyone looking for a feel-good story about finding love in unexpected places. The New York City backdrop during Christmas is simply magical and adds another layer of charm to this already enchanting series.

'Younger' offers a unique twist on the 'college romance' theme, focusing on Liza Miller, a 40-year-old woman who pretends to be 26 to get a job in the cutthroat world of publishing. While Liza isn't actually in college, her new 'younger' life throws her into the dating pool and social circles of people in their twenties, bringing all the excitement and confusion of early adult romance. The show is incredibly smart, witty, and surprisingly heartfelt, exploring themes of ageism, reinvention, and finding love at any stage of life.

The romantic entanglements are a major highlight, particularly the love triangle between Liza, the charming tattoo artist Josh, and her sophisticated boss Charles. The show expertly balances comedy with genuine emotional stakes, making you root for Liza as she navigates her double life. The fashion is impeccable, the friendships are strong, and the New York City setting is simply gorgeous. 'Younger' is a refreshingly different take on romance, proving that love and self-discovery aren't just for college kids.

'The Mindy Project' is a hilarious and utterly charming romantic comedy that, while focusing on an adult OB/GYN, Mindy Lahiri, brings a fantastic, almost college-esque energy to its romantic pursuits! Created by and starring the brilliant Mindy Kaling, the show is a love letter to romantic comedies, with Mindy herself constantly referencing her favorite films as she navigates her own chaotic love life. It's a show that's incredibly self-aware, witty, and full of heart.

Mindy's quest for 'the one' is the central driving force, leading to a series of often disastrous, but always entertaining, dates and relationships. The chemistry between Mindy and her colleagues, particularly Danny Castellano, is off the charts, providing a slow-burn romance that is incredibly rewarding. The show's humor is sharp, the pop culture references are abundant, and the characters are wonderfully quirky. If you're looking for a romance that's full of laughs, relatable dating woes, and a genuinely endearing protagonist, 'The Mindy Project' is a fantastic binge.

'The Carrie Diaries' is a delightful prequel to 'Sex and the City,' giving us a peek into Carrie Bradshaw's formative years in high school and her burgeoning life in New York City. While not strictly college, it absolutely captures that transitional period of young adulthood where romance takes on a whole new level of significance. AnnaSophia Robb perfectly embodies a young Carrie, complete with her signature wit and passion for fashion, as she navigates her first love, her first job, and her first taste of the big city.

The show is a charming exploration of self-discovery, friendship, and the excitement of a world opening up. The romance between Carrie and Sebastian Kydd is particularly sweet and complicated, showing the trials and tribulations of young love. It's a show that's full of hope, ambition, and a developing sense of style, making it a perfect watch for anyone who loves a coming-of-age story with a strong romantic core. It's a lighter, more innocent take on the 'Sex and the City' universe, but no less engaging.

'Awkward.' is a wonderfully witty and relatable series that perfectly captures the excruciatingly funny and often cringeworthy experience of being a teenager, especially when it comes to romance! The show centers on Jenna Hamilton, who, after an accident, is suddenly thrust into the spotlight and labeled 'that girl who tried to kill herself.' It's a premise that allows for incredible comedic and dramatic exploration of self-discovery, popularity, and, most importantly, navigating first loves and crushes.

Jenna's journey through high school is filled with hilarious internal monologues, complicated friendships, and a truly captivating 'Team Jake' vs. 'Team Matty' love triangle that kept viewers guessing. The series has a fantastic voice, blending sharp humor with genuine emotional depth. It's a show that understands the delicate balance of wanting to fit in while also desperately wanting to be yourself. If you're looking for a show that's honest, funny, and full of heartfelt teen romance, 'Awkward.' is a fantastic choice.

Oh, 'Gossip Girl' is the quintessential high school and early college romance drama for anyone who loves a bit of scandalous luxury and intricate relationships! While it starts in the hallowed halls of the Upper East Side's elite private schools, the characters eventually transition to college, bringing all their drama, fashion, and, of course, their complicated love lives with them. The show is narrated by the elusive 'Gossip Girl' herself, who keeps everyone's secrets, real or imagined, exposed for all to see.

The romantic pairings are legendary – Chuck and Blair, Serena and Dan, Nate and well, everyone! – each relationship a rollercoaster of passion, betrayal, and undeniable chemistry. It's a show that revels in its opulence and its characters' often questionable decisions, making it incredibly addictive. If you're looking for a show where the fashion is as sharp as the dialogue and the romantic entanglements are as complex as a Shakespearean play, 'Gossip Girl' delivers in spades, especially as its characters navigate the world beyond high school.

Alright, buckle up for 'The Vampire Diaries' because while it starts in high school, it quickly escalates into some seriously intense college-adjacent drama and romance, especially for its supernatural protagonists! This show took the world by storm with its captivating blend of gothic romance, thrilling supernatural elements, and a love triangle that defined a generation. Elena Gilbert finds herself torn between the brooding Stefan Salvatore and his dangerous, charismatic brother Damon, creating a romantic dynamic that kept viewers on the edge of their seats for years.

Beyond the epic love story, 'The Vampire Diaries' delves into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexities of good versus evil. The characters, even the villains, are given surprising depth, and the lore of Mystic Falls is incredibly rich. As the characters grow, some of them do venture into college life, bringing their supernatural troubles and tangled romances with them. It's a show that delivers high-stakes drama and passionate relationships, making it a thrilling ride for anyone who loves a bit of fantasy with their romance.

While 'New Girl' might not be exclusively set in a college, its early seasons, particularly, capture that post-college, 'figuring life out' vibe with an abundance of charm and romance! The series kicks off with the quirky and eternally optimistic Jess Day moving into a loft with three single men after a bad breakup. It's a show that quickly blossomed into a beloved sitcom, largely due to its incredibly witty writing and the undeniable chemistry of its cast.

The central 'will-they-won't-they' romance between Jess and Nick is legendary, evolving organically and providing countless heartwarming and hilarious moments. Beyond that, the show explores various relationship dynamics – friendships, casual dating, and serious commitments – with a refreshing honesty. The ensemble cast is simply brilliant, each character bringing their unique brand of humor and heart to the table. 'New Girl' is a delightful blend of comedy and romance that proves that finding your people, and perhaps your person, is a journey worth watching.

'Undeclared' is a fantastic, albeit short-lived, gem from Judd Apatow that perfectly captures the awkward, exciting, and often confusing first year of college. Following Steven Karp as he leaves home for the first time and tries to reinvent himself, this series is a masterclass in realistic and genuinely funny portrayals of young adulthood. It's less about grand romantic gestures and more about the messy, everyday realities of finding your footing in a new environment.

The show's strength lies in its ensemble cast, featuring early career performances from future stars like Seth Rogen and Jay Baruchel. The romantic storylines feel incredibly authentic, reflecting the trial-and-error nature of dating in college. It’s got that signature Apatow blend of humor and heart, making the characters feel like people you genuinely know. If you appreciate a more grounded and comedic take on college life and its budding romances, 'Undeclared' is a wonderfully understated and relatable watch that deserved more seasons.

'Greek' is an absolute riot and a fantastic dive into the world of college fraternities and sororities, all wrapped up in a delightful romantic package! This show, which premiered in 2007, follows Rusty Cartwright as he enters Cyprus-Rhodes University and tries to navigate the often-hilarious and sometimes dramatic world of Greek life. What makes 'Greek' so special is its ability to balance genuine humor with surprisingly heartfelt moments.

The show truly excels at character development, making you genuinely care about Rusty, his sister Casey, and their friends and rivals in Kappa Tau Gamma and ZBZ. The romantic entanglements are plentiful and often complicated, providing endless entertainment. It's a show that celebrates friendship, loyalty, and the sheer fun of college life, while also touching on deeper themes of identity and belonging. If you've ever wondered what goes on behind those fraternity and sorority house doors, 'Greek' offers a witty and engaging peek, complete with plenty of romantic sparks.

Oh, 'Felicity' is an absolute cornerstone of college romance dramas, and it still holds up beautifully! This J.J. Abrams and Matt Reeves creation, which first aired in 1998, follows Felicity Porter's impulsive decision to follow a guy she barely knows, Ben Covington, to the University of New York. It's a series that perfectly captures the anxieties, excitements, and profound self-discovery that define the college years.

Keri Russell's portrayal of Felicity is simply captivating, making her character's journey of cutting her hair, navigating friendships, and, of course, the epic Ben vs. Noel love triangle, incredibly relatable. The show delves deep into the complexities of young adult relationships, academic pressures, and figuring out who you are away from home. The writing is intelligent, the characters are richly developed, and the emotional stakes always feel incredibly real. It's a masterclass in capturing that specific, transformative period of life, making it a timeless classic for anyone who loves a good, heartfelt college romance.

Get ready to have your heart absolutely melted by 'Love, Victor'! This series, a spin-off from the beloved film 'Love, Simon', takes us to Creekwood High where Victor Salazar is on his own journey of self-discovery, identity, and, of course, romance. What truly sets this show apart is its incredibly earnest and authentic portrayal of a young man coming to terms with his sexual orientation while also dealing with the everyday pressures of family, friendships, and school.

The writing is incredibly sensitive and nuanced, allowing Victor's struggles and triumphs to feel genuinely earned. The connection to 'Love, Simon' adds a lovely layer of continuity, with Simon himself offering guidance to Victor. It's a show that champions inclusivity and understanding, making it a truly important and uplifting watch. The chemistry between the cast is palpable, and you'll find yourself rooting for Victor and his friends every step of the way. It's sweet, funny, and profoundly moving – a must-watch for anyone who loves a good romance with real depth!

Oh my goodness, 'Never Have I Ever' is an absolute gem in the realm of college romance, or rather, the lead-up to it! Created by the brilliant Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, this series perfectly captures the chaotic, hilarious, and often cringe-worthy journey of Devi Vishwakumar as she navigates high school, grief, and boy troubles. What makes it shine is its fresh perspective on the coming-of-age story, giving us a protagonist who's far from perfect but utterly relatable.

Devi's quest for a boyfriend and her struggle to balance her Indian heritage with her American life are both deeply personal and universally understood. The show's voice-over by tennis legend John McEnroe is an unexpected stroke of genius, adding a unique, self-deprecating humor that perfectly complements Devi's inner monologue. It's a show that makes you laugh out loud one minute and genuinely feel for its characters the next. If you're looking for a show that's witty, heartfelt, and packed with irresistible romantic tension, this is it!