Venus has the slowest rotation of any planet in the Solar System, and uniquely rotates in retrograde — opposite to its orbit. A sidereal day on Venus is 243 Earth days, while a full year takes only 225 days. The Sun rises in the west and sets in the east on Venus.
Surface temperatures reach 465 °C due to a runaway greenhouse effect, making it the hottest planet despite not being the closest to the Sun. A year passes before a full day does — Venus is the only planet where this is true.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a day on Venus?
A solar day on Venus is about 116.75 Earth days; a sidereal day is 243 Earth days.
Does Venus rotate backwards?
Yes — Venus rotates retrograde (east to west), so the Sun rises in the west and sets in the east.
Is Venus day longer than its year?
Yes. Venus takes 225 Earth days to orbit the Sun but 243 Earth days to complete one rotation.