Unearth an exotic 11-night journey to Turkey's most treasured archaeological sites for $1299 per person, including airfare and taxes -- all while staying in 4- and 5-star hotels.

This escorted vacation is the lowest priced Turkey package we've seen this year, slashing $700 per person off do-it-yourself pricing and taking the hassle out of negotiating in Turkish for transportation, hotels and a reliable tour guide.

This deal from Gate 1 Travel includes:

• Roundtrip airfare from the U.S. to Istanbul
• Accommodations in seven exotic cities
• English-speaking tour manager
• 19 meals: 11 breakfasts, eight dinners
• All transportation, including transfers

Travelers spend three nights in Istanbul; two nights each in coastal Kusadasi and Cappadocia; as well as one night each in historic Konya, Canakkale, capital city Ankara and Pamukkale. Along the way, discover ancient cities, hot springs, rock-cut houses and the Blue Mosque, one of the largest in the world.

Depart: Nov. 21-22 (Thanksgiving), 27-29; Dec. 4, 6; discounted departures available through March 2013

Flights are available from all major U.S. gateways; this package is priced from New York. See Gate 1 Travel's site for details.

Note: Reservations will require a deposit to secure the package airfare.

Travelzoo Tip: Stretch those vacation days by traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday.