Well, we finally leave for Rome on Monday (Sept 7th). My husband now says he would like to take a day trip to see some of the countryside. He's an amateur photographer and would like a relaxed day trip and maybe gets some good shots. Where would you love to go if you had 1 spare day?

An easy day trip by train is Orvieto. You'll get to see beautiful countryside and wander around a charming hill town.
If you want to see some pictures, I have some on my travelogue from my trip last year:
http://www.wired2theworld.com/ROME2008Day4.html
We rented a car and drove there, but taking the train would have been so much easier and less stressful.

Hello wittmann, I second Kristina's suggestion of visiting Orvieto. It was my thought as I read your post. It would be what you are both looking for I am sure. The train takes just an hour to go from Rome to Orvieto.

Hi Wittmann - Lots of options, depending on what you're looking for.

If not Orvieto, how about Tivoli?
- Villa d'Este fountain gardens &/or Hadrian's Villa

Castel Gandolfo/ Lake Albano? Ostia?

A little further afield - Assisi, Florence ... you're spoilt for choice

Steve

Orvieto is lovely, as is Tivoli, especially for someone who likes photography. Ostia Antica is really nice too. If I had to pick just one though, I'd have to go with Tivoli.