82 Rugged And Meaningful Viking Tattoo Ideas That Reflect On A Warrior's Mindset

Turning back time is a specialty of tattoos, as they can bring back age old traditions and cultures back to the modern era with the help of the right illustrations. That said, if your interests lie in everything that shapes up Norse mythology, perhaps a Viking tattoo might help bring your vision to life.

In a nutshell, Viking tattoos allow us to not only learn about the mindset that they possessed, but also pay homage to the instruments, companions, and emblems they used to be as dominant as they were between the early 8th and 11th centuries.

While the visuals of each candidate shaping up this guide of Viking tattoos is definitely a cut above the rest, each variant offers metaphorical and sentimental ties that are just as heavy. To learn about them all, stick around until you reach the end of this material.

One Culture In A Series Of Illustrations: The Layers Of Meanings Behind A Viking Tattoo

@jacktee_tattoos

More often than not, Viking tattoos are admired for the visuals they provide, even in compact spaces. However, not many take note of the messages they offer; all of which are mentioned in the segments placed below.

A Warrior’s Mindset

Since Vikings were known for their strength, resilience, and wisdom, many dub their way of thinking as the ideal contender for a warrior’s mindset.

By availing the services of a Viking tattoo, many are able to not only grow fundamentally, but also strive for greatness, even when under pressure.

Based On Norse Mythology

Since the Vikings came into existence in the 8th century and most warriors stemmed from Scandinavian countries and Nordic regions such as Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, many pursue Viking tattoos in hopes of representing as well as entertaining their obsession and admiration towards Norse mythology.

For The Love Of The Sea

Vikings were also known for being directionally adept, especially when sailing in the open sea. This narrative makes Viking tattoos the perfect notion for those who not only serve as captains of a cruise, but also prefer being lost at sea as opposed to being on roads.

Striking And Complex Viking Tattoo Designs That Pair Well With Resilient Minds

@bronzink

Due to representing an entire lore of greatness, warriors, and emblems that convey various messages, a Viking tattoo comes in various forms, with illustrations that pin their focus on generating details, as well as concepts that move mountains on the inside despite carrying a minimal illustration.

From traditional pieces to emblems that can be matched and shared between people in love, a Viking tattoo goes above and beyond to cater to enthusiasts with a keen interest in their back story.

To learn about them all, allow the following list of entries to take over! 

Traditional Viking Tattoo: Draped In Color

@onitattootilburg

While vikings were renowned for having a liking towards colorless designs with thick borders, one can easily use every affiliated emblem to form a traditional piece.

From using their spears to adding their dual-horned helmets on top of a portrait, this piece offers various components to support the visuals.

Due to the size it contains, a traditional viking tattoo feels best on the upper thigh.

Viking Compass Tattoo: Moving With Purpose

@sagar_tat2

Apart from being resilient and thick-skinned, vikings were known for being frequent travellers, often targeting areas that they could raid and subsequently take over.

While they preferred using sundials to help determine their next whereabouts, a compass makes sense as well, especially from an artistic standpoint.

Surrounded by runes, this viking compass tattoo pairs well as a sleeve, or on the forearm, offering tons of visibility to spectators. You may even explore a map on the chest for a sense of privacy. 

Nordic Viking Tattoo: Where It All Began

@nickmcnabtattoos

As vikings hailed from Nordic countries such as Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden afterall, a Nordic viking tattoo is a great way to pay homage to their legacy while also pursuing realism.

With outgrown hair morphed into braids, and clothing made of wool, this piece offers surreal graphics on top of adding a portrait with striking facial features.

To accommodate the design without a hassle, consider using the chest or back as the dedicated canvas.

Warrior Viking Symbol Tattoo: In Honor Of Their Unbreakable Spirit

@ink.xingh

The nature of viking tattoos isn't as complex as it seems on the outside. In fact, if you'd like to simplify it, wear emblems that shaped the nature of the vikings.

Since most dominant vikings were brave and assertive when it came to protecting their tribe, a warrior viking tattoo can be a great way to honor their commendable attributes.

 The valknut remains the best possible symbol to wear in this regard, which covers both of the former attributes, while catering to areas such as the wrist with their compact dimensions.

Viking Raven Tattoo: Prized Companions

@artbyfrancella

The connection between ravens and vikings go way back, thanks to the admirable eyesight and intelligence of the birds.

In fact, according to multiple stories in Norse mythology, Odin, the chief God of the former, would use a pair of ravens as his messengers to gather knowledge of the rest of the world, while also trusting them with his plans.

Due to the strong ties ravens had with the Norse God himself, a viking raven tattoo remains timeless, with elaborate illustrations often placed on the bicep. 

Viking Sleeve Tattoo: One Piece At A Time

@adamgalictattoos

Due to all the images, accessories, and symbols tied to the Vikings and Nordic mythology, the best way to do the greatness of that era justice is by wearing a tattoo that adds them all together into one frame.

And if you’re planning on going all in, a Viking sleeve tattoo might be the only concept that will pair well with your aims.

Though it can take a while to reach completion, the artwork is bound to carry tons of realism. If the pain level appears to be too much for your body to comply with, consider breaking the creative process down. 

Norse Viking Tattoo: Land Of The Kings

@nikolov.ink32

Although not all of them had the makings of a Viking, most Vikings hailed from Scandinavia, which makes a Norse Viking tattoo very much up for grabs.

Despite portraits with long strides, thick beards, and luscious hair being the ringleaders of this genre, this piece can also accommodate hammers and knots, both of which the Vikings are renowned for to this day.

Due to representing a sense of pride, this piece feels best when worn in areas with tons of exposure, from the hand to the forearm.

Viking Tribal Tattoo: Abiding By Structure

@reka.fuzes.tattoo

More often than not, Vikings were big on principle, loyalty, and strength. And when their backs appeared to be against a wall, they confided in their tribe members.

That’s exactly why a viking tribal tattoo makes so much sense. They not only represent how much the Vikings did to take care of their people, but also showcase patterns that operate on the same wavelength.

A viking tribal tattoo is a personal piece, making areas like the chest, ribs, and back ideal candidates. Even the shoulder can be a great canvas, as it is a totem for strength after all. 

Viking Head Tattoo: A Testament For One’s Strength

@pennyroyal.tattoo

Most viking tattoos don’t come with objective areas for placement. However, moving in a different lane is this concept, which targets the head, literally!

With a high pain level, a Viking head tattoo is surely a testament of one’s tolerance for pain and resilience, even when the artwork is engraved using a fine-line needle.

A viking head tattoo is flexible otherwise, accommodating ancient symbols, quotes, and letters used by the Norse warriors. 

Viking Rune Tattoo: Uniform Letters For Warriors

@burnedheartstattoos

Since most Vikings stemmed from Scandinavian countries, they often used runes to communicate with one another, which was crucial when planning raids and during battles.

 Much like the letters shaping up the alphabets, runes come in various forms, with each conveying its own message.

Due to being undersized, a viking rune tattoo can be worn as a finger tattoo, which can help keep things subtle.

Viking Ship Tattoo: Comfort At Sea

@northstartattoostavanger

Since Vikings were renowned for their sense of direction, especially when at sea, sailing ships were a common find among their fortes.

And while you can always depict an image with tons of realism and figurines, you can even move the other way, forming a ship with Nordic symbols.

Nonetheless, since the artwork demands space, using regions such as the thigh can be more beneficial than meets the eye. If your forearm is empty, you may even pursue a sleeve piece. 

Female Viking Tattoo: In Homage Of The Shield Maidens

@nthtattoos

When people hear about lores associated with the Vikings, they often imagine masculine men with long strides and scruffy beards.

However, many seem to forget about shield maidens, the group of women who were just as polished and resilient as the vikings.

For the former and more, a feminine viking tattoo isn't just appropriate, but also a great way of empowering women to do more. 

Viking Axe Tattoo: Keeping It Subtle

@mogiz.tattoo

Among the weapons they used, axes were extremely common, draped in knots to provide mental and physical protection.

A Viking axe can be a great piece to incorporate if you'd like to keep it subtle, while also wearing something that cements your strength.

In multiple scenarios, many have used an axe tattoo as the stepping stone for a sleeve tattoo, which is also something you may entertain. 

Viking Hand Tattoo: Painful, Yet Worthwhile

@katebrookestattoo

The area of placement can help shape the trajectory of your connection with a Viking tattoo.

Therefore, if you'd like to flatter those with a knack for Norse culture, use an area that is sensitised to pain.

A hand tattoo might limit the dimensions, but is regarded as one of the best genres for Viking tattoos, as it provides tons of exposure, while testing one's tolerance for pain with the hand's sensitivity. 

Viking Armor Tattoo: A Double Entendre 

@manonskullz

Though glorified in mainstream media, Vikings often wore tunic trousers and cloaks, making zero room for heavy-duty protection like shields.

Nonetheless, if you're pursuing a tattoo, adding means for protection, such as an armor, can be beneficial to a stencil resonating with vikings.

If figurines aren't your thing, you may even build an entire leg sleeve tattoo using a viking's armor like the one added for reference. 

Viking Dragon Tattoo: Seeking Wisdom

@inkscooltattoos

While dragons were extinct by the time they came into power, viking dragons exist in the world of fantasy, easily taking up the stencil to a viking tattoo.

Due to being portrayed as powerful and wise, dragons also appear to be the perfect sidekicks for portraits resembling ancient vikings.

Adding them separately can allow more details to be engraved. However, nothing beats a concept that fuses both subjects together! 

Viking Berserker Tattoo: Ruthless Aggression

@hayleyploos

Before the term “berserk” existed in every dictionary, there were Berserkers, Scandinavian warriors who often fought as though they had nothing to lose.

And while the former term pays homage to the vikings who fought fearlessly and through sheer aggression, portraits of the soldiers can also be worn as tattoos.

With helmets made of bearskin and facial expressions that act as the epitome of intimidation, this piece is a rare gem that many often don't commit to. 

Viking Wedding Ring Tattoo: Two Hearts, One Home

@beckywootattoo

While most viking tattoos are used to build strength and wisdom, you can even showcase the loyalty you have for your significant other through the help of a viking ring tattoos.

 Shaped by Celtic knots, this piece also offers protection from bad omen, being a great closer to long-lasting relationships.

Similar to what the name suggests, the best area for this artwork is the ring finger, which is typically used when wearing a wedding ring in general. 

Viking Chest Tattoo: A Private Companion

@boof_tattooer

Since most viking tattoos run large in size, targeting areas that align well with the dimensions while minimizing the pain levels is a good way to go about things.

One of the best areas is the chest, offering ample space and tons of privacy to protect the sentiments behind a viking tattoo.

From portraits to minimal emblems, anything remotely associated with the Vikings can be incorporated into this piece. 

Viking Skull Tattoo: Demonstrating The Brutality Of Death

@dylanwebertattoos

Due to fighting without regret, even a skull can be fused with a Viking tattoo, mainly due to the bravery the viking warriors possessed when fighting against enemies.

If you'd like your piece to drop dimes on philosophies that showcase the inevitability of death, this piece should serve as a solid companion.

Adding a helmet can be a good way to separate a viking skull tattoo from the average skull piece. If you'd like to add a recognizable face, use that of Odin. 

Viking Wolf Tattoo: An Anthem For Independent Souls

@shieldmaiden.tattoo

Much like wolves, Vikings believed in a world where moving independently was the only option. The former trait appeared to be beneficial nonetheless, adding to the strength and the bravery of Norse people.

A Viking wolf tattoo can be a great piece for those finding contentment in loneliness, as well as for those going through a rough patch.

The artwork might be complex to install due to the realism it carries, but should pay off for those seeking to use failure as a stepping stone to success. 

Viking Sword Tattoo: Made For The Elites

@marcelina_smokowska

Though rare, Vikings were known to have swords in their inventory. However, as opposed to shaping their results during war, the swords often determined their social status.

The swords in real life weren't any different from mediocre from a design standpoint, with a narrow structure and a dense base made of wood.

When converted into a viking tattoo, however, it can be easier to add more personality to the design, typically through adding knots and engraving runes into the blade. 

Viking Bear Tattoo: A Core Part Of Their Culture

@fleetytattoos

In Nordic culture, Vikings were known to adopt bears as pets, as the animals not only served as a testament for their bravery, but also played a significant role in gift giving.

 Since bears tend to be just as courageous and ruthless as vikings, blending a portrait of bears and Vikings goes hand in hand.

The easiest way to nail the look is by wearing a portrait of Odin, the Norse god in the eyes of many. 

Viking Helmet Tattoo: The Frontline Of Their Defence

@emmyfidlertattoo

After their physical attributes and weapon arsenal, it was the frontline of their defence that really made Vikings iconic, and smart.

Leading the way to protect them from CTE were helmets, fused with dual-sided horns.

 If you're seeking to keep it light, a Viking helmet tattoo can easily cater to your needs. You may even incorporate a skull tattoo underneath for some contrast.

Viking Shield Tattoo: Blocking Out The Noise

@lovebugtattoos

During battle, vikings often used their polished fighting skills to lead the way. Every now and then, however, they used shields with runes on them to protect themselves against swords.

While used to commemorate the warrior spirits of the Vikings, this shield can also be a great metaphor for those seeking mental protection.

Due to being a personal illustration, wearing it on the neck, wrist, and chest is advised. 

Viking Hammer Tattoo: Inspired By Mainstream Media

@delontattoo_uk

Though the Vikings often used axes, hammers are also popular emblems incorporated into a tattoo associated with their culture, especially after Thor hit the box office.

The artwork centers itself around the hammer, possessing tons of bulk. To highlight the mass, the handle of the weapon is often thinned out.

Due to the shading involved in the makings of the design, this piece is best when obtained in areas that can reduce the pain levels, such as the legs. 

Viking Calendar Tattoo: Based On Two Seasons

@tattoosbyjoeyp

To rise above the rest, consider exploring the roots of the vikings. And if you’re not exactly seeking something that will require tons of time and resilience, explore a viking calendar.

Unlike the traditional calendar, a viking calendar only consists of two seasons; summer and winter. Made with runes, this piece is a great way of paying homage to the legacy of the Vikings, all the while obtaining a pain-free and delicate design.

Viking Knot Tattoo: Manifesting Positivity

@doriitatts

Much like the Celtics, Vikings believed in wearing knots to avail protection during war. Wearing them also helped retain self confidence, especially during times of despair.

The visuals are virtually identical, with the knot being worn as an armband tattoo, being ideal for those with a keen interest in masculine artwork.

Many often express their concerns regarding the size of the piece, which tends to be a bit narrow in comparison to the rest. However, by adding Nordic symbols, and emblems associated with the vikings, it should be easy to fill in the blanks. 

Viking Leg Tattoo: A Solid Alternative

@danmurphystattoos

For a compilation representing Norse mythology, it’s ideal to use a canvas that can consume and display a series of elements without comprising the quality of any party involved.

That said, if the sleeve is already taken, you can always resort to the leg as a solid alternative.

From portraits to hammers and even runes, a Viking leg tattoo can help depict anything that your mind envisions, that too without inflicting unreasonable amounts of pain. 

Viking Arrow Tattoo: Layered With Multiple Interpretations

@sashawoland

Vikings were perceived as decorated marksmen, using bows and arrows to defeat enemies from a massive distance.

And since they are also directionally adept, an arrow tattoo appears to establish a double entendre in this regard, adding to its metaphorical value.

The back of the forearm appears a great area, as a shape as straight as an arrow has an easier time adjusting with the dimensions of the location. 

Viking Couple Tattoo: For Pairs In Love

@valenttetattoo

An alternative tattoo that lovebirds can wear instead of a ring is this viking tattoo, otherwise known as a viking couple tattoo.

In addition to symbolizing love and loyalty, this piece pursues a design that is obtainable on the forearm, just so the artwork can be placed next to one another with ease.

From double-edged swords to helmets, almost anything that one desires can be worn on this viking tattoo.

Realistic Viking Tattoo: As Good As It Gets

@elson_tafaart

Viking Back Tattoo: Best Investment For Compilations

@popotattoo

Viking Snake Tattoo: Road To Recovery

@lazyjaytattoos

Danish Viking Tattoo: A Connection Between Fate And Destiny

@inkydeer_

Viking Tree Tattoo: The Circle Of Life

@dylonbowenstattoo

Viking Forearm Tattoo: With Pride And Joy

@christopher_north_tattoos

Viking Owl Tattoo: A Reliable Confidant

@brunoalmeida.art

Frequently Asked Question

Now that we’ve unveiled all the contenders that make Viking tattoos so universally beneficial and sentimentally relevant, here are some questions that dive into the fundamentals of the movement.

Q: Did vikings have tattoos?

Ans: Due to being a way to express their inner desires, many Vikings wore tattoos on any region shaping their upper body. In certain scenarios, tattoos were also perceived as motivators in the eyes of the Vikings.

Q: What age did vikings get tattoos?

Ans: While there are tons of readings on Vikings and their knack for tattoos, there appears to be none regarding the age at which they indulged in such body modifications.

Q: Did vikings have tattoos on their face?

Ans: While Vikings did explore areas such as the forearm, fingers, and the bicep for tattoos, none of them had face tattoos, as they believed it reduced their intimidating aura.

Final Verdict

All in all, when it comes to promising visuals with engaging storylines, the emblems shaping up the world of Viking tattoos should definitely not be counted out.

From shields to portraits and even runes, a Viking tattoo comes in various forms, with each paying homage to a particular part of the lore.

To best wear a viking tattoo, it is ideal to not only prioritize the visuals that the artwork offers, but to also find purpose in the viking tattoo you wear.