Something I'd like to learn before I die.

What would actual speakers recommend for someone interested in learning the language? Speaking-wise, is it better to learn official Italian or a dialect like every person I know speaks opposed to the official language.

And also, what do people think is the easiest way to go about it? I've had Spanish for 5 years of school, and perhaps it was my lack of interest but I learned nothing special in terms of speaking it. Just random sayings and such.