How To Train Your Dragon In Order To Watch: The Complete Guide

If you’re ready to soar through the skies of Berk and beyond, knowing the proper viewing sequence is essential. The How To Train Your Dragon (HTTYD) franchise spans three main films, two short‑film specials, a television series, and a live‑action adaptation. This guide breaks down the optimal order, estimates total binge time, and even points out fun connections to other beloved movies.

Why Order Matters

Watching the series in the right order preserves character arcs, plot twists, and the emotional payoff that fans love. The release order reflects how the story was originally presented, while a chronological order can smooth out timeline gaps introduced by later TV episodes. Both approaches are valid, but most viewers find the release order the most satisfying.

Release Order – The Safe Bet

  1. How to Train Your Dragon (2010) – Introduces Hiccup, Toothless, and the Viking world of Berk.
  2. How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014) – Expands the universe with new dragons and the villain Drago.
  3. How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019) – Concludes the cinematic trilogy with an emotional farewell.
  4. DreamWorks Dragons: Rescue Riders (2020) – Short Film – A quick adventure featuring the main dragon duo.
  5. DreamWorks Dragons: Homecoming (2020) – TV Special – Sets the stage for the upcoming series.
  6. DreamWorks Dragons (TV Series, 2012‑2018) – 118 episodes across four seasons, exploring Hiccup’s life after the third film.
  7. How to Train Your Dragon: The Live‑Action Film (Upcoming) – Currently in development; keep an eye on Universal Pictures for release details.

Chronological Order – A Seamless Timeline

For viewers who prefer a story that flows without flashbacks, follow this sequence:

Note that the TV series takes place after the first film but before the second, so watching it before How to Train Your Dragon 2 maintains continuity.

How Long Will It Take to Binge?

Below is a quick calculation of total runtime, assuming you watch every official entry (excluding the upcoming live‑action film):