overnight, day trip from Rome

We once drived from Montepulciano to Sermoneta and spent the night there, in order to see The Garden of Ninfa the following morning. Sermoneta is a bit of a gem, just over 1.5 hours from Rome Termini (train stop is Latina, then bus or taxi). It's full of character, steep and crumbly, quite a few restaurants. Castello Caetani di Sermoneta is in town, part of the Ninfa foundation. Our hotel was at the top end of town, a splendid view from up there.

Everyone should visit The Garden of Ninfa. Don't know if it is open when you are there, but usually certain weekends and Mondays from spring until autumn, though you can book a private (pricey) tour. I loved that place.

Not so much overnight, though you can make it so. The Frascati/Castel Gandolfo area is good for a day trip.

Assisi is about 2 hours 20 min with a change
There are some direct trains that are right at 2 hours

Let me vote for Assisi too! I think you may find it a special experience. It can be crowded with tourists during the day but they are all gone by mid-afternoon. The evening hours, especially on the Piazza del Comune, has an atmosphere to be cherished for a very long time.

Assisi Is a great idea! Last trip I was between Assisi and Orvieto and chose Orvieto. Is one night enough though?

One night in Assisi? I'm prejudiced and lucky enough to have been there 2 weeks every year for 17 years (international music festival). Assisi has several layers to it. Below the 13th century churches you'll find the early centuries Roman culture. Below that there is evidence of Etruscan culture. The art, the artifacts, the Rocco Maggiore, Mount Subiaso, the churches, the views, local wines, leather shops, wooden souvenirs, religious souvenirs, local cuisine (try the wild boar!), late night walks with amazing views. Yes, I'd say more than one night is a good idea! I suggest a hotel on the flat level (there really is only one flat area in Assisi!) where Basilica Santa Chiara, the Piazza Comune are. My year's long favorite is Hotel Sole, right next to the Porta Romana.

I can't offer any small town suggestions, but wanted to ask about Orvieto. Hope that's okay....

We will be there for Easter weekend. I have made some dinner reservations, but can we wing it? Any suggestions for reasonable casual meal? Planning to buy the Oriveto card upon arrival and will wander. Did you make reservation for the underground? It's suggested on their website, but the booking calendar isn't available. Favorite thing in orvieto? We also have a planned side visit to civita di Bagnoregno (spelling?).

Fingers crossed Rome in April is more successful.

Thank you

Consider a 47 minute train from Roma Termini to Civitavecchia and then a 20 minute taxi to Tarquinia, especially if you like Etruscan tombs and art. Tarquinia is a lovely hilltown that is unspoiled by tourism. We stayed there for several nights, but I think an overnight would work well for you.