ICELAND was popular this year, Thailand hit its stride before that, but 2017 will be the year everyone wants to visit Portugal.

It’s been popping up on list after list after list of the world’s hottest destinations for the new year, and it’s easy to see why.

Warm weather, stunning beaches, historic cities and affordable prices make it a top choice. It’s also just a hop, skip or jump from pretty much anywhere in Europe.

Parts of Lisbon, the capital, date back to the ninth century.

You can explore the winding medieval streets of the Alfama neighbourhood, making your way to Castelo Sao Jorge. The city’s Moorish pinnacle offers spectacular views, and entry is just $10.90.

The waterfront neighbourhood of Belem houses some of Lisbon’s most important monuments and museums, as well as a number of cafes that sell exceptional Portuguese tarts.

Some of the city’s vintage trams have been in operation since World War II, and at a cost of just $3.60, it’s a scenic and cheap way to find your bearings.

Portugal’s stunning coastline is a huge drawcard.

Brave surfers can tackle the huge swell in Nazare, while beach-lovers can soak up the sun in the crystalline waters further south at Lagos

The beaches relatively undiscovered by the international hordes.

However, with US travel to Portugal increasing 22 per cent in the past 12 months, that could be about to change. Iceland was so popular this year American tourists outnumbered the island’s residential population. If Portugal follows suit, you’d better get in quick.

Portugal’s second biggest city, Porto, is located in the country’s north.

It’s about an hour’s drive from the Minho wine region, which produces fresh whites perfect for drinking in the summer as well as robust fortified wines.

In terms of food, a local favourite is the Francesinha, which is like a sandwich with sausage, ham, steak, melted cheese and a hot tomato and beer sauce.

The city itself has a medieval centre with cobbled streets and gilded carvings. It’s a maze, but if you follow the river you won’t get lost.