Viking Tattoo Ideas

Popular Viking Tattoo Styles

As Viking tattoos pay homage to warrior culture and even Norse mythology, they represent a very powerful symbol of bravery and strength. They are often extremely intricate and can be paired with a number of different symbols and mystical creatures to create different meanings. 

Some of the most common objects that are used in Viking tattoos include other mythological creatures such as bears, ravens and wolves; shields and axes, which represent the major weapons of the warrior; ships, especially longboats, that Vikings rode on their raids; and braids and knots, which can represent how life is interconnected.

Best Viking Tattoo Placements

Because Viking tattoos are often very intricate, they typically require more space than other types of tattoos. This means that areas such as the back and chest are great places for these tattoos. On these parts of the body, you can easily integrate other things such as ships or even full battle scenes.

Viking tattoos can be designed to wrap around legs and arms for full sleeves, for example, and the elements that are used here are often much longer than they are wide.

Women’s Viking Tattoo Ideas

While the Viking is often associated with masculine themes, there are plenty of great Viking tattoos for women, too. Many times, women will take a more artistic approach and include softer tones and styles.

There are many Norse symbols that can combine floral elements to present a fusion of both beauty and strength that are appealing to many women. There are also female warriors who were very powerful in Norse mythology as well, including the Valkyries.

Men’s Viking Tattoo Ideas

Men will also take a much stronger and bolder design with their Viking tattoos to represent their masculinity and power. Oftentimes, they will use warrior faces, helmets and other weapons to symbolize their warrior spirit. 

Men use Viking ships a lot in their designs, which they put on their back quite often to make a rather big statement.

Viking Tattoo Meaning

Vikings represent strength and power, and that is often depicted in Viking tattoos. Men and women alike use it in conjunction with ships, rune stones and other symbols to represent their bravery, strength and/or sense of adventure.

They can be softened a bit and used in conjunction with flowers, or even other symbols to show their tendency for protection. In reality, you can take a Viking tattoo in a number of directions based on the design, colors and placement you choose.