The term Vikings meant “a pirate raid” in Old Norse.

The Norseman’s unrivalled sea trade and pillaging created a huge European diaspora that has in turn led to a massive tattooing subculture centered on Viking mythology.

Viking, Norse, and Celtic tattoo (they’re very closely related) is rich with symbolism, superstition, warrior Gods, and powerful animal motifs. Whether it’s a viking skull tattoo, a tattoo symbol calling to the Gods, or a simple horned helmet and sword piece, there’s body art that will appeal to you.

The following collection of top 207 best Viking tattoo ideas showcase the breadth and depth of Viking age tattoo style, featuring a range of brilliant designs for your tattoo artist to help capture the essence of bravery and martial skill.

See more about – The Top 50 Best Ultimate Tattoo Ideas

1. Viking Compass Vegvisir Tattoo 

See more about – Top 71 Viking Compass Tattoo Ideas

The Viking compass – known also as Vegvisir – is a bit of a mystery. Only mentioned in one Icelandic manuscript, it supposedly keeps the wearer (or bearer) safe in all types of horrific weather and keeps them from getting lost.

In addition, it can help get travellers where they’re going, even if they don’t know where that might be. 

A Vegvisir tattoo often incorporates runes at the end of each line. These can be used to spell out the name of a place you’re headed, the place you call home, or the name of a loved one.

Remember that precise linework is essential for a bold Viking compass tattoo idea. Each rune should be crisp and readable. 

2. Viking Tribal Tattoo Style Design 

You may associate knotwork with Celtic history. When Vikings began to invade and colonize these lands – between 600 and 1200 AD – they adopted some of these popular patterns into Viking design.