Why is it hard to get to Venus?

Why is it so challenging to reach Venus? Given its proximity to Earth, why haven't we been able to explore it as extensively as other planets? Is it due to the extreme atmospheric conditions? Or is it the technological hurdles we've yet to overcome? How do these challenges compare to missions to other celestial bodies? Are there any ongoing or planned missions that aim to unlock the mysteries of Venus? Could advances in spacecraft technology soon make the journey to Venus more feasible? And what might we learn from such a mission that could benefit our understanding of the universe?