Will have an 11 hour lay-over in Madrid. Would like to get out of the airport to see some sights and/or have a meal downtown. Any recommedations? Many thanks!!

First, here is an easy way to get into the city without going underground.

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-terminals.cfm

Then, depending on where you are going, a taxi or another bus.

There are luggage lockers at this bus station called "consigna".

I would head to the Royal Palace area, stroll around there, have a meal, maybe at Casa Marta, and visit the museum of your choice before heading back to the bus station depot.

You can also store your luggage at the airport, so you don't need to lug them into the city.

I agree with lin about the Palace area - Plaza Oriente is beautiful , there are some lovely cafes/restaurants right there . You'll have time to walk over to Plaza Mayor and have tapas on Cava Baja.
I would take taxi both ways ( about 30 euros each)

If you like art, Madrid has several fine museums. The Prado is one of the best in Europe for old masters, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía are very good and close to the Prado.

Wow, thanks for the info! So glad I asked.......did not know where to begin on my own. Looking forward to some tapas in Madrid!

Madrid is a big city but many attractions are rather close.
Take a look at a map before you go.
There is a tourist office right in Plaza Mayor.