31 Movies Like The Princess Diaries
Dreaming of tiaras, secret castles, and finding out your grandma is a queen?
Same, bestie. SAME.
Whether you’re still waiting for that life-changing phone call à la Mia Thermopolis or hoping to casually bump into a hot royal while grabbing your iced coffee (Blair Waldorf style), there’s just something magical about a good ol’ royal glow-up.
Sure, the odds of becoming actual royalty are, like, one in a million—but that’s what makes these movies so addictive. They’re sparkly, swoony, and filled with feel-good fantasy that hits just right.
This content contains affiliate links. As an affiliate for a number of brands, and an Amazon Associate we may earn commissions on qualifying sales. You can read the finer details about what that means here.
Movies Like The Princess Diaries
1. The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
Obvious but true!
The charming Mia Thermopolis is back and ready for more royal misadventures, this time in Genovia. Now a college graduate, she faces an unexpected challenge: marry within a month or give up the throne.
As Mia navigates through potential suitors and palace intrigue, she finds herself on a hilarious and heartfelt journey towards becoming the queen she’s destined to be. This sequel invites you to cheer for Mia as she steps up in love and leadership—perfect for fans craving another dose of delightful royal chaos.
2. Ella Enchanted (2004)
Imagine being magically compelled to obey every command (hell, nah!).
That’s Ella’s (Anne Hathaway) reality in this whimsical adventure, where she embarks on a quest to reclaim her autonomy. Along the way, she encounters ogres, giants, and a charming prince.
With its witty humor and a fearless heroine, Ella Enchanted offers a fresh twist on the fairy tale genre, making it a perfect match for those who admired Mia’s spirited journey in The Princess Diaries.
3. Enchanted (2007)
When fairy-tale princess Giselle (Amy Adams) is catapulted into the bustling streets of modern Manhattan, her storybook life turns topsy-turvy.
From delightful musical numbers to unexpected romances, Giselle’s enchanting misadventures bridge two worlds, exploring what it truly means to find your happily ever after.
Fans of The Princess Diaries will adore the magical mishaps and heartwarming journey that Enchanted weaves. However, this is a musical, consider yourself warned.
4. What a Girl Wants (2003)
In What a Girl Wants Daphne Reynolds is a plucky New Yorker who dives headlong into British high society to find her father and discover herself.
As she stumbles through faux pas and cultural clashes, Daphne’s vibrant journey of self-discovery and family reconciliation captures the humor and heart of finding where you truly belong.
It’s a spirited romp that will resonate with anyone who loved Mia’s own adventures in royalty.
5. A Cinderella Story (2004)
Imagine living under the thumb of a wicked stepmother and her two mean-spirited daughters. That’s Sam’s reality in this modern-day fairy tale, where she dreams of escaping her life of servitude and attending Princeton.
With the help of her quirky best friend and a mysterious online pen pal, she sets out to break free from her stepfamily’s grasp. A Cinderella Story blends humor, romance, and a dash of magic, creating a delightful twist on the classic tale.
Fans of The Princess Diaries’ fearless heroine and witty charm will find themselves rooting for Sam as she navigates her own enchanting adventure.
6. Maid in Manhattan (2002)
Romance doesn’t adhere to social boundaries in Maid in Manhattan.
Marisa Ventura discovers this when a mix-up at her hotel maid job leads to an unexpected courtship with a wealthy politician.
Set against the backdrop of New York’s glitz, this film blends romance with questions of identity and aspirations, echoing Mia’s transformation from ordinary girl to princess.
This film follows the idea that every woman is a princess, regardless of the background.
7. The Princess Switch (2018)
What happens when a duchess and a down-to-earth baker from Chicago switch lives?
This movie is a double dose of delightful escapades filled with love, laughter, and unexpected discoveries about oneself. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite Christmas princess movies.
With its twin tales of romance and royal duties, The Princess Switch is a festive treat that fans of The Princess Diaries will find irresistibly charming.
8. The Royal We (2025)
Swapping out Genovia for Great Britain, The Royal We gives us a commoner-meets-royalty romance with a cheeky British twist.
When American Bex Porter falls for Prince Nicholas—the future king—things get complicated faster than you can say “corgi.”
Between royal scandals, tabloid drama, and palace protocol, Bex’s fairytale is far from picture-perfect—but that’s what makes it so juicy.
It’s witty, romantic, and just messy enough to feel real, kind of like The Princess Diaries if Mia grew up, moved to London, and fell for the heir to the throne with a smoldering stare.
Note: this bad boy is based on a book (just like the OG Princess Diaries). If you want to read the book before watching it, you can snag it here.
9. 13 Going on 30 (2004)
13 Going on 30 is one of my FAVORITE movies from the early 2000s, I used to watch it ALL THE TIME.
It’s a whirlwind overnight transformation for 13-year-old Jenna Rink, who wakes up in the body of her 30-year-old self! As she navigates the complexities of adult life with the heart of a teenager, Jenna discovers that some dreams are worth keeping.
This magical blend of romance and comedy invites you to fall in love with the possibilities of life, echoing the enchanting transformations of The Princess Diaries.
10. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Dive into the cutthroat world of high fashion in The Devil Wears Prada with Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), a young journalist who lands a job no one would kill for—except her.
As she struggles to meet the demands of her formidable boss, Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), Andy begins to question whether her personal sacrifices are worth her professional gains.
This chic, sharp-witted exploration of ambition and identity is perfect for fans of transformative journeys like Mia’s in The Princess Diaries.
11. Miss Congeniality (2000)
Meet Gracie Hart (Sandra Bullock): tough, smart, and completely out of place in a beauty pageant.
In Miss Congeniality, Gracie is tasked with going undercover to prevent a national disaster, she must navigate the bewildering world of swimsuits and sequins. As Gracie transforms from a no-nonsense FBI agent to a pageant princess, she discovers unexpected strengths.
This blend of action and comedy is a delightful watch for those who enjoy seeing a character embrace an entirely new role.
12. Pretty Woman (1990)
I understand that Pretty Woman isn’t the most acceptable movie these days, but I STILL love it (#SorryNotSorry), is the ultimate princess dream (well, maybe not the sex worker part…).
When a wealthy businessman (Richard Geer) hires an escort (Julia Roberts) to attend social events, both expect nothing more than a business deal. But as they get to know each other, their relationship blossoms into something neither anticipated.
Set against a backdrop of luxury and glamour, this iconic romance challenges the boundaries of status and love, appealing to fans of heartfelt transformations and unexpected connections.
13. Notting Hill (1999)
Imagine a famous actress walking into your bookstore and turning your life upside down.
For William Thacker (Hugh Grant), a humble bookshop owner, this fantasy becomes reality when he meets Anna Scott (Julia Roberts) in Notting Hill.
As they navigate the complications of fame and privacy, their charming and awkward romance will capture the hearts of anyone who loves a fairy-tale love story in a real-world setting.
14. The Proposal (2009)
In The Proposal, high-powered book editor Margaret (Sandra Bullock) faces deportation to Canada, her solution? A sham engagement to her long-suffering assistant, Andrew (Ryan Reynolds).
As they head to Alaska to convince his family, their plan leads to humorous confrontations and unexpected revelations. This romantic comedy about love, career, and the spaces in between will entertain fans of stories about personal growth through extraordinary circumstances.
This is a bit more of a silly romance, but it’s totally worth the watch!
15. The Reluctant Royal (2025)
Trading his wrench for a crown, Johnny Payne’s life takes a royal detour in The Reluctant Royal.
This Philly mechanic discovers he’s the long-lost son of an English duke, thrusting him from grease stains to royal banquets.
With his rugged charm and a knack for fixing more than just cars, Johnny navigates the posh halls of nobility, turning aristocratic heads and maybe even winning a certain lady’s heart.
It’s a rags-to-riches tale with a twist, proving that sometimes, the best princes come with a bit of grit under their nails.
16. My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)
My Big Fat Greek Wedding is a HILARIOUS romance, I highly recommend watching it.
Toula Portokalos is 30, single, and working in her family’s Greek restaurant. When she meets and falls in love with the decidedly non-Greek Ian Miller, a cultural clash and comedic family antics ensue as they plan their wedding.
This heartwarming story about embracing your heritage while forging your own path resonates with anyone who’s navigated family expectations and personal desires.
17. Roman Holiday (1953)
If you want a classic film, Roman Holiday is for you.
Princess Ann (Audrey Hepburn) sets out for a day of freedom in Rome, shedding her royal responsibilities under the incognito guise of an everyday tourist. When she meets Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck), a reporter, her brief escape spirals into an adventure of self-discovery and romance.
This enchanting tale of spontaneous adventure will captivate those who dream of a day away from life’s scripted roles.
18. Two Weeks Notice (2002)
In Two Weeks Notice, Dedicated lawyer Lucy Kelson (Sandra Bullock) wants nothing more than to save her beloved community center. Her billionaire boss George Wade (Hugh Grant), however, requires constant guidance on everything from his clothing to his divorce papers.
When Lucy resigns, they both start to realize how deeply their professional lives are entangled with personal emotions. This witty and engaging film explores the complexities of work relationships evolving into something more.
19. Sabrina (1954)
Another classic Audrey Hepburn romance pick is Sabrina.
After returning from Paris transformed, Sabrina catches the attention of the wealthy Larrabee brothers, sparking a complex romantic triangle. As she navigates the trials of love and social status, the film delves into themes of transformation and the power of sophistication.
This elegant and romantic story is perfect for those who delight in watching characters evolve and find their place in the world.
20. Austenland (2013)
Jane Hayes’s (Keri Russell) obsession with Mr. Darcy, as played by Colin Firth, has left her disillusioned with love. So, she spends her life savings on a trip to Austenland, a Jane Austen-themed resort, to meet her perfect Regency-era gentleman.
Her adventures, filled with whimsy and misadventures, humorously parody the Austen experience. This movie is a delight for anyone who has ever been caught up in the fantasy of a novel. I love this film primarily because it’s sounds like something I would do… anything for romance, right?
19. Sabrina (1954)
Another classic Audrey Hepburn romance pick is Sabrina.
After returning from Paris transformed, Sabrina catches the attention of the wealthy Larrabee brothers, sparking a complex romantic triangle. As she navigates the trials of love and social status, the film delves into themes of transformation and the power of sophistication.
This elegant and romantic story is perfect for those who delight in watching characters evolve and find their place in the world.
21. Leap Year (2010)
Determined to propose to her boyfriend on February 29th, Anna (Amy Adams) plans the perfect trip to Dublin. But fate has other plans, and her journey takes a hilarious detour through the Irish countryside with a charming innkeeper, Declan (Matthew Goode).
As they face obstacle after obstacle, Anna finds herself questioning everything she thought she wanted. This movie is a charming exploration of love, destiny, and the surprises life can throw our way. Plus, the super cute accents!
22. The Holiday (2006)
If you want another Christmas flick, The Holiday is for you.
Nursing broken hearts, Iris and Amanda swap homes across the globe for the holidays, each seeking a refuge from romantic woes.
But a change of address does wonders, as both women find themselves embarking on unexpected journeys of self-discovery and new romances.
This warm, festive film beautifully captures the spirit of starting over and the universal search for happiness.
24. A Royal Christmas (2014)
When Philly seamstress Emily meets her beau’s family, she wasn’t expecting a crown to be part of the package.
In A Royal Christmas, love gets the royal treatment as Emily discovers her boyfriend is actually Prince Leopold of Cordinia.
Cue the tiaras, tea parties, and one icy queen determined to break up this fairy-tale romance.
With holiday cheer and a dash of royal drama, Emily stitches together her own happily ever after, proving that sometimes, love truly conquers all—even royal protocols.
25. Secret Society of Second-Born Royals (2020)
Who says second-borns don’t have all the fun?
In Secret Society of Second-Born Royals, rebellious princess Sam discovers that being second in line comes with its own set of perks—like superpowers and a secret society dedicated to saving the world.
Between covert missions and royal duties, Sam and her fellow spares prove that you don’t have to be first to be number one. It’s a royally rebellious adventure that flips the script on fairy-tale traditions.
26. Serendipity (2001)
In Serendipity, When Jonathan and Sara meet by chance one winter night in New York, they feel a magical connection.
Deciding to leave their future to fate, they part ways only to find that true love isn’t so easy to forget.
Years later, their lives converge in a poetic testament to fate and timing. It’s a whimsical, romantic journey that charms viewers who believe in destiny.
27. Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
Crazy Rich Asians is a funny and bold film with a dash of princess-like romance.
Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) accompanies her boyfriend, Nick (Henry Golding), to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore, only to discover his family is incredibly wealthy and he’s one of the country’s most eligible bachelors.
Thrust into the spotlight, Rachel must navigate jealous socialites, quirky relatives, and Nick’s disapproving mother. This dazzling, fun film explores cultural clashes and the power dynamics of love and wealth.
28. Becoming Jane (2007)
Becoming Jane is another Austen-inspired film.
This film imagines the early life of Jane Austen, portraying her as a spirited young woman determined to live a life different from the traditional paths available to women in the 18th century.
Her romance with a charming young Irishman inspires her writing and her fierce desire for independence.
It’s a moving tale for anyone captivated by love and the enduring power of literature.
29. Letters to Juliet (2010)
While vacationing in Verona, Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) discovers an unanswered “letter to Juliet” — one of thousands of missives left for Shakespeare’s tragic heroine.
She embarks on a quest to reunite the letter’s author with her long-lost love, which leads to a journey of romance and self-discovery.
Letters to Juliet is a sweet, picturesque film is a testament to enduring love across generations.
30. Mamma Mia! (2008)
On a picturesque Greek island, Sophie (also Amanda Seyfried) dreams of a perfect wedding, one where her father gives her away.
The problem? She’s not sure who he is!
After secretly inviting three of her mother’s ex-lovers to the wedding, hijinks ensue. This joyous film, filled with catchy ABBA tunes, explores family secrets with lots of laughs and heart.
31. Chocolat (2000)
When Vianne opens a chocolate shop in a tranquil French village, her mouthwatering confections shake up the rigid morality of the community.
Her gift for perceiving her customers’ desires through their favorite chocolates leads to magical results.
Chocolat is a delicious blend of mystique, romance, and transformation, celebrating the liberating power of indulgence.
Final Thoughts: Movies Like The Princess Diaries
There’s just something about a royal romance that makes your heart do a little curtsy, isn’t there?
Whether you’re cozied up solo with snacks and your favorite fuzzy blanket, planning a girls’ night in, or turning movie night into a swoony date, these Princess Diaries-style picks are total crown jewels.
From fierce leading ladies to fairy-tale-level glow-ups and just the right amount of butterflies-in-your-stomach romance, you’ve got options fit for a queen (that’s you, obviously).
So spill the tea—👑 Which one are you watching first?
